From ASEAN to Beijing, from Lecture Halls to Durian Stalls
As the epidemic subsides and the colors of people's lives return, multifaceted cooperation between China and the ASEAN region is in full swing and a new chapter in history is about to be turned. This year marks not only the 20th year of the strategic partnership between China and ASEAN, but also the 10th anniversary of the concept of a "Closer China-ASEAN Community of Destiny". Against this backdrop, 2023 has already witnessed a series of remarkable exchanges and collaborations. For instance, the "China-ASEAN Education Exchange Week" was recently held under the theme "New Vision for Educational Cooperation & 'Belt and Road' Joint Prosperity." A series of collaborations have been launched between educational institutions, including the establishment of the International Finance and Economics Education Alliance led by the Central University of Finance and Economics. Shortly after, the "Understanding China: ASEAN Youth Leaders' Visit and Research Group," which comprises young officials from all ten ASEAN countries specializing in diplomacy, economics, education, culture, and other fields, also embarked on a visit to China with the aim of gaining a deeper understanding.
These activities encompass diverse dimensions, including education, technology, and culture. They have significantly advanced the collaboration between China and ASEAN in the field of education, particularly in promoting youth mobility and fostering mutual understanding. All of these signify the fruitful outcomes and immense potential for future cooperation between China and ASEAN. As commonly acknowledged, significant developments often arise from seemingly inconspicuous endeavors.Amidst a number of initiatives and various exchange and cooperation meetings between the ASEAN and Chinese governments, several representatives of institutions and corporate elites from Beijing met at a durian stall in the smoky, bustling city of Kuala Lumpur after completing their busy daytime business schedules. During our visit, we were warmly received by enthusiastic local Chinese individuals. Throughout our engaging conversations, we exchanged views on the economic and educational achievements of our country. We marveled at the rapid rise and impressive national development of China's economy. Furthermore, we were struck by how Chinese communities in Southeast Asia, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, as well as entrepreneurs and professionals from China's education and cultural sectors, have all benefited from China's robust development. This has instilled in Chinese descendants both within and outside the country a deep sense of confidence and pride.
Splitting open a fresh durian had sparked a new topic of conversation. A friend from Beijing couldn't help teasing Mr. Tsai, a Taiwanese businessman who had been residing in Malaysia for a long time, asking if he was afraid of reunification by force Mr. Tsai chuckled and replied, "Of course, I hope that doesn't happen. That's one of the reasons I moved my factory to Malaysia. It's really the Americans and some politicians who are stirring up trouble. The mainland has given us so many opportunities to make money. It's better for everyone to live in harmony, isn't it?" Malaysian Chinese Dr. Lam chimed in, "To be frank, although Chinese peoplehave influence in the Southeast Asian economic circle, they can also face exclusion and suppression from other ethnic groups. If it weren't for China's strong development as a backing, we would feel like Jews trying to settle in other countries. China's economy and international discourse power also to some extent influence the status of overseas Chinese in their local communities." China has been promoting cooperation in many areas within ASEAN, especially through economic and business projects, which are spearheaded by local Chinese as spokespersons. This has significantly influenced the original position of the Chinese in Southeast Asia's public and even political system.
Their words make the representatives of Beijing feel the same roots and blood ties with overseas Chinese, a strong sense of identity, which also generates a patriotic sentiment. If they want to do more and help overseas Chinese, they will have a deeper understanding of the deep affection and power contained in every word when President Xi mentions overseas Chinese compatriots in his New Year and holiday speeches. Chinese people speak Chinese. Since the unified Qin and Han dynasties, we have had the same written language and the same culture. The genes and memories that have been passed down for thousands of years are ingrained in our blood. At an inconspicuous stall selling durian, I found resonance with fellow yellow-skinned descendants of the Chinese.
"People in your area often say that education is so stressful," one remarked, "Kids hardly have time to play and have to constantly solve problems and study hard to have a chance at exams, right?"
The Beijing representatives sighed, "Yes, for the middle school entrance exam, students almost have to score full marks. Many of them are the 'second generation of exam takers', offspring of parents who struggled hard to earn their own place in Beijing's elite educational institutions. Given China's large population and the importance everyone places on education, the competition is indeed fierce. However, the government is also making significant efforts to change this situation, by introducing talent diversification and multiple vocational training paths. But many parents are still unwilling to accept this."
"Oh, the elders in our family always say, 'Even if we're poor, never skimp on education.' Therefore, Chinese people here generally strive to attend and complete college. On the other hand, many Malays or Indians start working after graduating from high school, as pursuing a master's or doctoral degree is not considered as essential. The proportion of high school graduates who go on to take the college entrance examination is not very high in this region."
"Parents in Beijing usually hope that their children will at least graduate with a master's degree in the future. This way, they'll have better opportunities to get jobs in state-owned enterprises or to become civil servants. Indeed, observing the kids here, they seem happier, more playful, and not under so much pressure..."
Education, technology, real estate, and wealth are always hot topics of discussion among the Chinese community, both domestically and internationally. We have been discussing how to find our own place in the wave of Southeast Asian economic rise led by China, in areas such as education, economy, technology, culture, and any other field we can participate in. This deep conversation has not only elevated our friendship but also shown us the potential for more interaction and cooperation. We agree that at a time when China is expanding its overseas strategic efforts to promote economic growth, the old capitalist powers in Europe and America are experiencing a decline. This situation is like a pot of gradually warming water, where waters of different temperatures exchange at different levels and eventually come to the surface, revealing more possibilities.
Especially in Southeast Asia, represented by Kuala Lumpur and Malacca in Malaysia, members of the British Commonwealth, this region is located at the intersection of Asia, Europe, Africa, and Oceania, adjacent to the developed city-state of Singapore. The National University of Singapore and Nanyang Technological University have long occupied top positions in Asian university rankings, demonstrating the strength of education and technology in this area. China aims to develop trade and economic relations with Europe and Africa through the maritime route, making this land a significant geopolitical stronghold. With the continuous growth of the economy, this place not only provides an important international cooperation platform for China but also reveals new possibilities for people seeking more development opportunities. In this era of change, each of us is searching for our own place and looking forward to showcasing our self-worth in this fertile soil of Southeast Asia, actively participating in the wave of economic rise led by China.
Therefore, a proposal has been made to build a bridge of education, technology, and culture between Beijing and Kuala Lumpur, with the aim of providing a valuable platform for exchange in the fields of education, business, culture, and technology. Through this platform in the Malacca region, not only can global development opportunities be expanded, but also communication and cooperation between various sectors can be further deepened. Inspired by the comrades in the field of education, science, and culture, the name "Beijing Education Science and Culture Cooperation" (BJESCO) emerged. We have carefully chosen to use "Cooperation" instead of "Organization" to emphasize that it is not just an organization, but also a multidimensional and cross-disciplinary cooperation platform. In practical operation, legal entities will be established in Kuala Lumpur and Malacca, Malaysia, with the participation of initiators, representatives from enterprises, and major universities in Beijing, providing support and resources for the operation of this platform.
The policy between China and ASEAN governments, cooperation and reform in education, cutting-edge technology, and cultural integration, although seemingly high-level topics, became more genuine and relatable on that evening amidst a pile of durian and a few casual conversations. It was on that evening that we realized that whether it is grand political goals, noble educational ideals, the driving force of advanced Chinese technology, or a shared vision of Chinese culture, they all ultimately need to be implemented in order to truly change people's lives. Thus, BJESCO came into being, not only as a cooperative organization, but also as our shared belief and expectation.
We are not dreamers or armchair theorists. We are practitioners, individuals who are willing to turn beautiful ideas into reality. Through BJESCO, we hope to enable more people to enjoy equal access to education, the convenience of technology, and the diversity of culture. This aspiration, although originating from a humble durian stall, stands out remarkably due to its extensive and profound cooperation between ASEAN and China. Just like a durian, it may not appear impressive on the outside, but if you taste it carefully, you will discover its richness and variety within.
Our company has become the initiator of this cooperation platform and has become an important project promoter and cornerstone in the field of education. On the one hand, this is due to the recognition and trust gained from the long-term service to the government by Beijing Hongwei | Hongwei First Creation | Hongwei Tech Defense (R)" over the past 20 years, as well as the intrinsic motivation and sense of mission for continuously serving China's education system. On the other hand, it stems from our long-term deep thinking and understanding in the field of examination security technology. " Engaging in the business of exam cheating prevention for nearly 20 years may sound serious and dry.
What is the ultimate goal of exam anti-cheating measures? It's a world where people don't need to cheat, and perhaps even a place where large-scale standardized tests aren't necessary for talent selection! Individuals have the fair and free right to education, unaffected by the pace of individual intelligence and learning speed. They shouldn't be constrained by rigid examination systems.. As long as they have interest and put in effort, based on their financial capabilities, they should be able to pursue their educational and academic endeavors and integrate into society."
Everyone is born equal. However, during the process of growth and development, females tend to enter puberty earlier than males, and each individual's intelligence and physical development progress at different rates. My son, for instance, achieved impressive results in the first year of junior high school without much training, surpassing my own achievements during my middle school entrance examination. However, whenever he encounters a math or physics problem that he deems incredibly difficult, I can effortlessly provide the answer. The understanding of different subjects varies among children due to differences in brain development. The rigid examination system, which pursues absolute high scores in all subjects, seems to be more about pressuring children within an environment of competition rather than inspiring them to become excellent scholars through healthy competition. Instead, it dissipates their enthusiasm for learning itself, the pursuit of science and technology, entering society in the future, and the desire for a better life. This dissipates prematurely in the minutiae of exam preparation, in the collective anxiety of families and parents, and even in the physiological limits of brain gray matter development, white matter development, and oxygen supply capabilities. It continues until everyone hopes to enter state-owned enterprises or become civil servants after obtaining a graduate degree, ultimately reaching a point where they can finally enjoy a peaceful life without having children, in the false belief that they have successfully achieved a state of contentment. However, this is an illusory endpoint. As the most advanced beings on this planet, what is the true meaning and contribution of our existence?
During the primitive era, people lacked knowledge and pursued the desire for knowledge. The sages and wise men, after acquiring knowledge, became even more eager for the truth. Children from the eastern coast, upon graduating from high school with joy, would go to the beach for tourism, drive speedboats, catch seafood in the sea, and happily engage in work. They did not have such a strong desire for material possessions and money. We strive to cultivate our children, teaching them advanced knowledge in technology, law, programming, design, and financial economics. Even if they come from wealthy families, we cannot avoid worrying that our children may fall into prolonged anxiety about being replaced by AI in the future.
Enjoying the freedom of education and acquiring knowledge without the need for exams to sift out insincere talent is the ultimate goal of our anti-cheating business. It gives people the opportunity to choose their economic and social roles based on their own physiological and intellectual development, as well as their family and personal interests. If someone wants to study in a field they are passionate about, they can find a suitable institution to pursue their education. If they desire to study at a university in a specific country, they can do so as long as their finances permit. Even if someone enters middle age, they can still have the drive and ability to pursue academic endeavors, provided that the conditions allow for it. Just like the experts at our Hongwei company, even at 40 years old, they enthusiastically pursue their doctoral degrees, eager to contribute their achievements in the anti-cheating technology and academic fields.
When our staff interacted with the higher education department in Malaysia regarding anti-cheating technologies, their reaction was reminiscent of that from Chinese exam administrators two decades ago. After some extensive communication, they finally understood we weren't there to promote cheating equipment. Throughout the entire conversation, the main focus was on the surprising number of interesting cheating techniques. They eagerly inquired if we had brought any samples for them to experience. However, our staff members regretfully explained that these items were prohibited and required a lengthy application process to be taken abroad, leading to their evident disappointment. This disappointment reflected their eagerness to explore these fascinating gadgets. It was evident that if society were not driven by intense competition and if there were channels to alleviate the anxiety of parents and students, education would be viewed as a genuine and proactive investment rather than a forced and relentless endeavor. In such a society, people would naturally have less desire to cheat, and there would be no need for extensive anti-cheating measures.
It may sound ironic that we are planning to do something that could potentially undermine our own business in the future. However, upon closer analysis, these two ventures actually complement each other. Having dealt with exam institutions for many years, we've encountered numerous parents who are concerned about finding the right path and ensuring their children's academic success.
China has never lacked housing, with numerous empty cities, ghost towns, and old industrial bases with cheap properties due to resource depletion. However, people are crowded and competing in large cities, which has driven up housing prices. Chinese people should also not lack higher education resources, as the pathway of studying abroad has always been open, with a sufficient number of universities worldwide for Chinese students to attend.
One of our representatives from Beijing once said: 'Even though there's a divergence after high school, and half of the students might not get into a college there are no kids who can't go to school in Beijing.' Actually, this statement applies to the entire country; it's just a matter of which school to attend in the end. In this situation, economic status and the ability to access educational resources and information often play a decisive role. " To put it another way, our goal is to enable parents to have a broader perspective of information under the same economic circumstances, allowing them to choose from colleges nationwide and even globally, thus reducing the difficulty and level of educational investment for both children and parents.
To draw a more vivid comparison, purchasing a plane ticket from the Northeast to Hainan might cost several thousand yuan, while purchasing a ticket from Beijing to Kuala Lumpur might only cost a few hundred yuan. So, for students in the Northeast, they face the choice between attending a 211 university in Hainan or studying at an internationally ranked university within the top 200. In fact, due to the exceptional performance of Chinese students, they have already surpassed their foreign counterparts by a large margin. Chinese high school graduates can generally apply directly to foreign universities. On the other hand, Malaysian high school graduates need to complete a two-year pre-university education before they can enter university.
Overall, Malaysia is considered to be one of the most developed countries in terms of social class structure, economic level, and educational outlook within the ASEAN region. Kuala Lumpur is second only to Beijing and Shanghai as an international metropolis in Asia. However, when looking at the big picture, Malaysia's overall development and even consumption levels are more closer to China's average levels 10 to 20 years ago. Yet, Malaysia's unique geographical position in the Straits of Malacca and its Commonwealth political history give its higher education institutions a high international reputation and evaluation. This offers students the chance to apply to higher-ranking institutions in the UK, US, and Europe from Malaysia, far surpassing the fierce competition they would face applying directly from China. Moreover, Malaysia is a low-cost study abroad destination, with overall expenses being a fifth or even a tenth of studying in Europe or America. A four-year undergraduate education in Europe or America generally requires families to have liquidity of around 2 million yuan. In Malaysia, however, perhaps 200,000 to 300,000 RMB would be sufficient, which is comparable to the overall cost of some families sending their children to university in cities like Beijing and Shanghai.
Furthermore, our participation in this collaborative framework is driven by a broader national perspective and vision, embodying a sense of patriotism and aiming to enhance the overseas Chinese community's sense of identity with their homeland and deepen cultural integration among each other. This will ultimately elevate China's influence not only in ASEAN but also worldwide. Due to historical reasons, Chinese education in Malaysia is not encouraged by the government, and Mandarin is not taught in national schools. However, the Chinese community in Malaysia still maintains their language by establishing numerous independent schools to teach Chinese to their children. Despite the challenges they face, such as a lack of qualified teachers, funding, and limited opportunities for graduates to enter public universities, they persist in their commitment to preserving the Chinese language and cultural heritage. We deeply admire the efforts of the overseas Chinese community and sincerely hope to be of assistance to them in any way possible.
Therefore, as representatives from Beijing, we have come together to utilize our network of resources and actively encourage more Chinese universities to accept overseas Chinese from Southeast Asia as international students. This will enable them to contribute to the technological development and rich Chinese culture of our homeland. Not only will this increase the sense of deep connection between overseas Chinese and our country, but when these Southeast Asian Chinese return to their respective countries, they will bring with them advanced technology, culture, skills, and business opportunities from China. While China has long provided economic and policy support to Africa and other developing countries, supporting overseas Chinese in Southeast Asia is a long-term strategy for incremental development, laying a solid foundation for the enduring Chinese culture and the long-lasting prosperity of our nation.
In today's global landscape, it's worth questioning who truly has the upper hand: the United States, the Soviet Union, the European Union, or the Commonwealth of Nations? The United Kingdom, once the empire where the sun never set, even with its monarch serving largely as a symbolic figure and frequent changes in prime minister ship, still remains the sovereign leader in the Commonwealth system. They have achieved this through the sheer influence of the English language and cultural exports, fostering a sense of collective identity. While the United States relies on its military might, capitalist economy, and advanced technology, the waning influence of these factors raises doubts about their lasting power. In comparison, the soft cultural connection within the Commonwealth, based on shared values and language, seems to have more potential for enduring success compared to the European Union's rigid economic integration. This has become a compelling reason for various sectors in China to support Southeast Asia and even overseas Chinese communities worldwide.
Our company, BEIJING WHOLEWAY CENTRON TECHNOLOGY CO. LTD, also encourages partner institutions to join our collaborative framework. In this way, they can provide more opportunities for the Chinese diaspora from Southeast Asia when recruiting international students and offering scholarships to enhance the institution's international presence.
Our grand vision is to establish an equitable education exchange platform, leveraging the background of BJESCO if possible. In simple terms, we aim to provide Southeast Asian Chinese, foreigners, and Chinese university students with the opportunity to find their desired schools on a global scale, thus facilitating the free flow of talent. Although this endeavor will require significant effort, I firmly believe that with the continuous development of technologies such as AI and standardized processes, we can achieve this goal.
No matter what the future holds, it remains distant and the road ahead is still challenging. However, at least I am aware that our starting point is beautiful and our direction is correct. This is enough to fill me with unlimited anticipation and hope for this cooperative organization and everything it represents. BJESCO will not only be a cooperative organization, but also a collection of ideas and a meeting point for souls. We will strive to promote global education, technology, and cultural exchange and cooperation, making our modest yet steadfast contribution to the continuous development of individuals and society.
Alright, let's give a round of applause... Originating from a bustling corner of the city under the night sky lit up by fireworks.