Young readers engage with women writers in cultural exchange

In 2024, significant literary exchanges took place between Malaysia and China to commemorate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. The Malaysian-Chinese writer, Li Zishu, known for her award-winning novel 'Worldly Land,' embarked on a 52-day literary tour of China from October to November, visiting key cities such as Beijing, Lijiang, and Chengdu. During her time in China, she enthusiastically promoted her two books and engaged with local literary enthusiasts, receiving a warm and receptive welcome. Li reflected on the deep cultural ties between the Malaysian-Chinese community and the Chinese people, which she believes helped bridge understanding between readers and her novels. This favorable reception of her literary work in such a vast market was an unexpected surprise for her. She noted the similarities in culture and values, stating these commonalities allow readers to connect with her characters and narratives seamlessly. Having lived in China previously, Li acknowledged experiencing cultural differences upon her return to Malaysia and emphasized how these contrasts enrich her literary creativity. In addition to Li, the Chinese writer Qiao Ye also engaged in literary exchange activities during this period. Qiao participated actively in discussions regarding the creation, translation, and publication of literary works. She visited historical landmarks and Chinese language schools, where she interacted with Malaysian-Chinese individuals. Qiao's experiences highlighted the rich traces of Chinese culture present in Malaysia, as observed in Li's novels, which depict culturally significant practices such as playing Chinese chess and celebrating traditional festivals. The exchanges allowed both writers to connect over shared cultural influences and ideas. The literary exchange sought to foster deeper understanding and appreciation of the diverse literary landscapes of both countries, facilitating collaborations that may continue beyond this initiative. Li expressed her desire for these types of exchanges to be reciprocal, enhancing cultural interaction and growth in both communities. The success of the literary activities indicated a bright future for Malaysian-Chinese literature, paving the way for its wider acceptance and distribution within China's literary scene.