PETALING JAYA: He has had to put up with harsh winters in Beijing, but Malaysian student Jack Ng has embraced the vast opportunities available in China.
Ng, a PhD student specialising in film studies at the Communication University of China, admitted to struggling with the cold in northern China, particularly in Beijing.
“The temperature dropped to minus 17°C last winter.
Fun abroad: (From left) Ng, Lim and Ong.
“Until now, I have not been able to adapt to this. I don’t particularly like the cold weather. I would choose to not go out because there is heating at home,” he said.
During his early days in China, he encountered cultural differences, such as variations in the cuisine and the Mandarin accent.
But Ng, 42, adapted quickly, considering them part of China’s north-south cultural diversity.
In fact, he discovered commonalities between the two countries due to a shared foundation in the Chinese culture, language, heritage and a mindset focused on hard work and learning.
“While basic salaries may not surpass those in Malaysia, the potential for higher remuneration exists for those with talent,” said Ng, who is from Kuala Lumpur.
For example, he said the numerous academic conferences in China provide platforms for publishing research papers.
This, he said, is a significant aspect of his PhD studies.
As for this year’s 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China, Ng praised his home country for maintaining a moderate stance and fostering friendly relations with China.
Looking ahead, he said he would anticipate further strengthening of ties between the two nations, in which they have more collaborations that would lead to even more opportunities in the future.
Yvonne Lim, who is an editor at CGTN, a Beijing-based media organisation, recalled arriving in the Middle Kingdom with her husband during the Covid-19 lockdown in 2022.
The couple spent two weeks under quarantine in Foshan, Guangdong, before flying to Beijing.
“Quarantine meant staying in a tiny room and taking a Covid-19 test every two days. Without this test, we were not able to get into any building, including our workplace,” said Lim, 37.
But soon after the lockdown, Lim’s “adventure” began.
She explored her new surroundings, went sightseeing and sampled the diverse cuisine.
Among her favourites are whole lamb roast, and Xinjiang and Hunan cuisine.
“Hunan cuisine is very spicy and would lead to a detox the next day, but it is always worth it.
“I love how diverse China is. Every city we visit has its own culture,” she added.
Language was a struggle for Lim because she grew up in a Peranakan household and spoke Malay at home. Fortunately, her husband is proficient in Mandarin.
“It was tough at the beginning, being pretty much illiterate in the language, but after some time, I got the hang of things and could order online using translation software,” she said.
On the issue of the 50th anniversary of Malaysia-Chinese diplomatic ties, Lim said the two countries have had a long history.
“Being Malaysian and Peranakan, my roots are deep in both Chinese and Malay cultures.
“This gives me the best of both worlds and is also a testament to the special deep and long-established ties between the two countries,” she added.
Dr Ong Sheau Wen, an assistant professor in the Media and Communication Department of the Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, had much to share about her two years in China so far.
On a personal level, she has little difficulty in navigating everyday life in Xian.
To those who face culture shock, Ong said it is important to have an open mindset, practise tolerance, and show respect for others.
She believes a person’s ability to adapt to a multicultural world will contribute to personal growth.
Ong, 44, found many similarities between the two countries.
“Malaysia and China have many things in common such as food and festivals,” she said.
Reflecting on her experiences, Ong highlighted the diverse communication styles among the university staff who come from different countries and regions.
Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University is an international joint-venture university founded by Xi’an Jiaotong University in China and the University of Liverpool in the United Kingdom.
Ong said Malaysians tend to prefer “indirect” communication, while others lean towards more direct, straightforward approaches.
“Managing these differences is crucial to fostering effective communication and harmonious relationships,” said Ong, who is from Kajang, Selangor.
As for the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Malaysia and China, Ong described it as a year of hope and opportunities, citing possibilities in further exchange and collaboration in culture, education and tourism between the two nations.
