A cultural exchange delegation from Heze, East China's Shandong province, visited Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) in Malaysia on Dec 9 to host a peony-and-Hanfu themed event, promoting cultural exchanges between China and Malaysia.

During the event, representatives inaugurated the International Communication Office (Kuala Lumpur) for Peony Culture and the Overseas Youth Hanfu Club. Attendees enjoyed a Hanfu fashion show by students from UTAR's Confucius Institute and explored exhibitions on peony culture and Hanfu creativity.

The cultural event announces the establishment of the International Communication Office for Peony Culture (Kuala Lumpur station). [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Goi Bok Min, vice-president of UTAR, highlighted that peonies, symbols of grace and prosperity in Chinese culture, are highly appreciated by UTAR's students and faculty. The university values the integration of Chinese cultural heritage and modern education.

He also noted that Hanfu, traditional Chinese attire, is gaining popularity in Malaysia, with many graduates choosing to wear it at their ceremonies.

Caoxian county in Heze is a major player in China's Hanfu industry, known for its complete supply chain and innovative designs.

Cao Lin, minister of Heze Municipal Publicity Department, praised UTAR's Confucius Institute for its role in Sino-Malaysian cultural exchanges. She emphasized that Heze's peony culture and Caoxian's Hanfu industry are important cultural assets.

Goi Bok Min (left), vice-president of UTAR, presented a gift to the Shandong delegation led by Cao Lin (right). [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

This event marks a new chapter in Heze's cultural outreach and UTAR's efforts to promote Chinese culture overseas. Future plans include art exhibitions, cultural experience weeks, and youth study tours to deepen Sino-Malaysian cultural understanding and friendship.

A Hanfu presentation session at the event. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]