The Changing Role of Malaysian Chinese Organizations in the Construction of a Cultural Community of Common Destiny

NG Yean Leng(伍燕翎)

《Malaysian Journal of Chinese Studies》 8卷2期 (2019/12) Pp. 11-24

https://doi.org/10.6993/MJCS.201912_8(2).0002

摘要

There are about 9,000 Chinese community organizations in Malaysia, broadly grouped according to province/village, lineage, cultural, educational, religious and occupational affinities, a few dating back to the nineteenth century. They are officially registered as "associations" and are non-political entities. Their existence is a reflection of the work and sacrifices of the Chinese and their mission is to serve specific social and cultural needs of the community. Cultural, literary and educational associations in particular have developed in tandem and mutually reinforcing to constitute a cultural "community of common destiny" of the Chinese. However, many in the smaller towns are suffering from a lack of purpose and direction. In the context of the promotion of a community of common destiny, these organizations are presented with opportunities that may empower them to play a more meaningful role to showcase the variety of Chinese cultural life and at the same time to contribute to development process.

關鍵字

Chinese community organizations ； Belt and Road Initiative ； community of common destiny ； Chinese culture