Young hosts begin their journey along the Maritime Silk Road in Malaysia

Five young hosts from China and Malaysia explore the Maritime Silk Road in Malaysia during the third season of the ASEAN China Youth Hosts Camp from Sept 26 to 28. [Photo/Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region radio and television bureau]

In celebration of the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative, five young hosts from China and Malaysia, participating in the third season of the ASEAN China Youth Hosts Camp, embarked on a journey to explore the historical and modern aspects of the Maritime Silk Road in Malaysia. From Sept 26 to 28, they engaged in immersive cinematic experiences and city walk tours, fully embracing Chinese tea culture and the Baba & Nyonya heritage in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia's capital.

Their journey commenced at the Putrajaya International Convention Center, Malaysia's federal administrative center, where the fifth ASEAN-China Media Week opened on Oct 21, marking the event's overseas debut.

Young hosts enjoy Liu Bao tea, a renowned Chinese tea, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. [Photo/Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region radio and television bureau]

The anchors chose to seek and savor Chinese flavor in Malaysia during their journey. They ventured into Chinese tea houses in Kuala Lumpur, experiencing the locals' fondness for Liu Bao tea, a renowned tea variety from China. 

In ancient times, tea traversed the Maritime Silk Road, fostering economic and cultural exchanges between China and its Southeast Asian neighbors. Chinese tea has found a special place in the hearts of Malaysians, and the unassuming tea leaf has been witness to the collaborative and friendly stories of cooperation between China and Malaysia.

Furthermore, they explored the Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum, diving into the realm of Sino-Malaysian cinema and cultural exchange. The Baba & Nyonya culture emerged from Zheng He's five voyages to Malacca during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). This culture represents a fusion of Chinese traditions with local Malaysian elements, preserving the imprints of traditional Chinese culture while incorporating Malaysian influences.

Broadcasting and film also play pivotal roles in international cooperation and cultural exchange under the BRI, acting as bridges for people-to-people exchanges between the two countries. 

Dressed in Nyonya attire, the young hosts reenacted iconic scenes from The Little Nyonya, an outstanding work of Sino-Malaysian cultural fusion. 

Their immersive experience at the museum allowed them to delve into Malaysia's unique Nyonya culture, enriching the enduring story of friendship between China and Malaysia.

Young hosts immerse themselves in Malaysia's unique Nyonya culture. [Photo/Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region radio and television bureau]

With the wafting aroma of tea and the interplay of light and shadow, the youth from both countries explored the new opportunities along the Maritime Silk Road.