My Tour In Xinjiang Has Been Incredible – Bernama Chairman

Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai, chairman of the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama), returned to Xinjiang after 25 years to attend the 6th World Media Summit. His journey, filled with learning, reflection, and excitement, provides a fresh perspective on both the evolving global media landscape and the remarkable transformation of Xinjiang.

URUMQI (Xinjiang, China), Oct 17 (Bernama-Xinhua) -- “After 14 hours of flight, I’ve finally arrived here,” said Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai, chairman of the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama), expressing his excitement upon arriving in Urumqi, the capital of northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.

Wong’s anticipation for this visit had been building for a long time, as it marked his return to the region after 25 years. "I am truly excited to see the changes happening here," Wong said, according to Xinhua.

Wong was among over 500 representatives from 208 institutions, including media outlets, government agencies, and international organisations from 106 countries and regions, who participated in the 6th World Media Summit, which opened on Monday in Urumqi.

Noting that this was his second attendance to the summit, Wong praised the event as “an excellent platform for fostering connections among the global media community”.

A major highlight for Wong was the engaging discussions surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) during the summit. “I gained valuable insights at the summit -- from experts, journalists, participants, and stakeholders worldwide -- on how we can collaborate to harness AI responsibly and ethically.”

For Wong, the summit this year offered more than just a platform to engage with global media leaders -- it was also an opportunity to reconnect with Xinjiang.

Following the summit, participants toured various destinations across Xinjiang to experience local customs and traditions and to interact with local communities.

Along with other global media professionals, Wong made a trip to Kashgar, a historic Silk Road hub now transformed into a tourist destination with unique cultural and geographical advantages and a passage connecting China to Central Asia, South Asia, West Asia, and even Europe.

“The tour here has been incredible,” Wong reflected. “From the people to the rich culture, and the breathtaking scenery, and the impressive growth of the China (Xinjiang) Pilot Free Trade Zone in Kashgar -- it’s been mind-boggling.”

Throughout his journey, Wong shared his experiences on social media, where his account now boasts more than 12,000 followers. In his posts, Wong documented the friendly engagement with local residents and impressive cultural heritages, noting “I am going to miss all these.”

“Hopefully, I’ll get to come back soon,” he said.

-- BERNAMA-XINHUA