Cross-Cultural Ties at Confucian-Islamic Civilisation Dialogue

21 October 2025

KOTA KINABALU: A significant gathering was held at Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) today, bringing together scholars, officials, and cultural ambassadors from Malaysia and China for the Confucian-Islamic Civilisation Dialogue, an event aimed at fostering mutual understanding and strengthening cultural bonds.

In her keynote speech, Caretaker Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment, Datuk Seri Panglima Christina Liew, underlined the vital role of dialogue in bridging cultural gaps and enhancing international relations. She welcomed distinguished guests, including Zhu Xinglong, the Consul General of China in Kota Kinabalu, alongside representatives from Minzu University of China and the China Foundation for Cultural Heritage Conservation.

Liew highlighted Sabah’s unique position as a melting pot of diverse cultures and a historic crossroads for trade and cultural exchange. She praised the state’s multi-ethnic society, which exemplifies how cultural diversity, when embraced with mutual respect, becomes a pillar of strength and resilience.

The Minister also reflected on Malaysia and China’s longstanding relationship rooted in centuries of trade, shared traditions, and aspirations. She emphasised how Sabah has greatly benefited from this partnership, particularly through tourism, cultural exchanges, and heritage conservation initiatives. She expressed her hope to deepen these ties for the benefit of future generations.

Liew expressed her appreciation for China’s cultural organisations and officials like Liu Yuzhu of the China Foundation for Cultural Heritage Conservation, who are working with Sabah to preserve and promote its rich cultural heritage. She announced her confidence that Liu Yuzhu’s upcoming visit to the Sabah Museum would open new avenues for collaboration.

Concluding her speech, she stressed, “Culture is the soul of a nation, defining identity, connecting us to our roots, and shaping our future. Ongoing efforts should be held to safeguard cultural heritage amid globalisation, emphasising that genuine diplomacy is rooted in people-to-people connections fostered through academic and cultural exchanges.”

The Minister extended her gratitude to UMS and Minzu University of China for co-hosting the event, expressing hope that the spirit of mutual understanding and friendship would endure beyond this day, strengthening ties between Malaysia and China, and between Confucian and Islamic civilisations.

This dialogue aims to serve as a platform for shared human values, promoting peace, tolerance, and cooperation in an increasingly interconnected world.