In a testament to enduring Sino-Malaysian friendship, twelve faculty members and students from Zhejiang International Studies University, accompanied by representatives from the Malaysia-China Cultural Tourism Association, embarked on a cultural odyssey through Malaysia from July 1st to 5th, 2024. This educational journey saw them traverse the historic city of Malacca, the bustling Petaling Street in Kuala Lumpur, and the verdant tea plantations of Cameron Highlands, immersing themselves in the rich tapestry of Malaysian tea culture and its convergence with Chinese traditions. At each destination, heartfelt exchanges with local communities underscored their commitment to fostering lasting ties between the two nations.

 Organized under the banner of "Tea Trails Along the Silk Road, Exploring Malaysia Chinese Heritage," the China-Malaysia Youth Cultural Exchange and Study Tour was a collaborative effort between Zhejiang International Studies University's School of Culture and Tourism and the Malaysia-China Cultural Tourism Association. HELP University Malaysia provided academic oversight, while the initiative received robust support from Tourism Pahang.

The Malaysia-China Cultural Tourism Association, guided by its ethos of Promoting Tourism Through Culture while Promoting Culture Through Tourism, aligned closely with Malaysia's strategic development goals outlined by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, and the Ministry of Higher Education. Their joint endeavor aimed to elevate educational tourism by delving into the depths of tea culture, thereby enriching cross-cultural understanding and bolstering the influence of traditional Chinese customs

This educational mission marked a pivotal cultural exchange initiative commemorating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Malaysia. Led by Zhejiang International Studies University's Associate Professor Li Na, eleven young scholars engaged in a five-day immersive study and research program across Malaysia. This expedition followed a series of online forums since May, where scholars and industry experts deliberated on the historical trajectory and contemporary landscape of Malaysia's tea industry, drawing comparisons with China's rich tea heritage.

  The visit to Hlite University Malaysia's Damansara campus facilitated profound interactions with academic leaders, including Vice Presidents Stephen Wu and Fiona Woo, Dean Dr Alice of the School of Tourism and Hotel Management, and Dean Nicholas Lum of the Graduate School. Collaborative research on tea culture ensued, with students and faculty from both institutions forming research teams to explore facets such as tea rooms, merchants, beverages, and plantations.

Acknowledged by ASEAN Tea Organization Secretary-General Mr. YC Wong and Natural Tea Masterclass founder and Tea master Ms. Kok Pui Leng, the study tour included insightful interviews with stalwarts of Malaysia's tea industry in Petaling Street, Kuala Lumpur. These exchanges illuminated the evolution of tea trading practices, consumption trends, and the vibrant tapestry of Malaysian tea culture, highlighting both similarities and distinctions with Chinese counterparts.

The culminating segment at BOH Tea Plantation in Cameron Highlands provided firsthand insights into tea cultivation techniques and the nuances of black tea tasting, culminating in a certificate presentation ceremony attended by Assemblyman YB Ho Chi Yang. His remarks underscored Pahang's commitment to fostering international study initiatives as a catalyst for cultural exchange and mutual understanding.

Associate Professor Li Na of Zhejiang International Studies University expressed gratitude for the collaborative support and lauded the profound educational benefits of the journey. Reflecting on their discoveries, she noted the students' deepened appreciation for Malaysia's diverse culinary and tea traditions, alongside insights into the localized adaptations of Chinese tea culture in Malaysia.

Natalie Chan, President of the Malaysia-China Cultural Tourism Association, hailed the initiative as a catalyst for scholarly achievement and a dynamic driver of tourism and cultural exchange between Malaysia and China. She extended appreciation to Ms. Leong Yu Man, Executive Councillor for Unity, Culture, and Tourism of Pahang, Assemblyman Ho Chi Yang, and Tourism Pahang for their unwavering support. Looking ahead, she affirmed the association's commitment to furthering bilateral cooperation in tea culture research and industry exchanges, fostering enduring friendships among the youth of both nations.

This transformative journey exemplified the power of educational tourism in bridging cultural divides, celebrating shared heritage, and nurturing global citizens committed to cross-cultural understanding and collaboration.