Bonds formed from exploring China together

When friends or acquaintances from overseas visit your home country, it’s always an exciting and enriching experience.

For Tian Yuan, a mainland Chinese, it was a delightful and thrilling opportunity to welcome her acquaintances from Malaysia.

Tian Yuan

The 29-year-old, currently pursuing a PhD at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), had recently hosted her supervisor and a group of delegates from Malaysia in Beijing.

“My supervisor and delegates came to attend the Beijing International Book Fair (BIBF). It was my first time hosting visitors in my country, and I was excited about it,” she told the Sarawak Tribune.

As a staff member at a cultural centre, Tian is familiar with sharing the rich tapestry of Chinese culture.

“It was very nice to meet them in China. According to an old Chinese saying, it’s always a pleasure to have friends who come from afar. That’s exactly how I felt,” she said.

Despite their busy schedule, Tian took them to explore some of Beijing’s most iconic and historical sites, such as the Great Wall of China, the Temple of Heaven, and Tiananmen Square.
“The Great Wall is one of the greatest wonders of the world. It’s incredible to think about the immense effort and ingenuity it took to build such a monumental structure in ancient times.

“Walking along its winding paths, you can almost feel the weight of history and the stories embedded in each stone,” she said.
Tian mentioned that the Temple of Heaven also made a profound impression on her guests.

Their attention was captivated by this masterpiece of Ming and Qing architecture with its symmetrical layout and intricate designs.

“The Temple of Heaven is not just a beautiful architectural feat; it’s a place deeply rooted in Chinese culture and spirituality. It’s where emperors once prayed for good harvests, and being there feels like stepping back into a rich and sacred history,” she explained.

At Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world, the delegation witnessed the vibrant pulse of Beijing.

“Tiananmen Square is a symbol of modern China. It’s a place where historical events unfolded and continue to be made. Standing there, surrounded by monumental buildings and enveloped in the city’s energy gives you a sense of the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of China,” she said.

A view of Tiananmen Square

Beijing’s city centre

For Tian, sharing these experiences with her Malaysian guests was both a privilege and a joy.

She hoped her guests would return home with fond memories of China and a better understanding of the country’s rich history and culture.

“Seeing their faces light up with wonder and appreciation for our culture made all the effort worthwhile. It reminded me of the beauty and depth of my heritage, something I sometimes take for granted.

“Sharing my culture with them and seeing their genuine interest and enthusiasm was heartwarming. It created a bond beyond our academic and professional relationships,” she said.

When asked about the ideal duration for a trip to China, Tian stated that it depends on the individual’s interests and travel plans.

For tourists who love history and culture, she said China is a fascinating country with many attractions worth visiting.

The Great Wall of China

“If you have enough time, I recommend staying for at least a month so that you can have a deeper experience of Chinese customs, history, and culture. Of course, if time is limited, a trip of a few days to a week can also give people a taste of China’s unique charm.

“But regardless of the duration, the most important thing is to enjoy the journey and appreciate the beauty of China,” she said.

Tian pointed out that a longer stay allows visitors to truly immerse themselves in the diverse experiences China has to offer. A month-long trip provides an opportunity to explore beyond the famous tourist spots.

“You can visit smaller towns and villages, experience local festivals, and interact with people in their everyday lives. This way, you get a more authentic understanding of the country’s traditions and way of life.

“If you only have a week, focus on the highlights like Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi’an. Shanghai offers a glimpse into modern China with its skyline and bustling markets.

“Meanwhile, Xi’an, with its Terracotta Army, provides a deep dive into ancient Chinese history. Each city has its unique flavour and story to tell,” she said.

Despite the mixed emotions of farewells, Tian expressed her honour in hosting her Malaysian acquaintances.

“Saying goodbye is always difficult, but it’s also a promise of more adventures to come. I look forward to visiting them in Malaysia in the future.

“Hosting my supervisor and the delegation has been a wonderful journey. It’s not just about showing them around; it’s about building lasting connections and understanding each other better,” she added.