Tsinghua University Student Association Forges Stronger Ties Between China And ASEAN

By Chiang Hee Tze

PINGYAO, (Shanxi, China), Aug 19 (Bernama) -- A new generation of leaders is emerging to strengthen ties between China and ASEAN, driven by the efforts of students from Beijing’s prestigious Tsinghua University.

The Tsinghua University Student Association of China and ASEAN (THUCA) has become a cornerstone for young professionals to cultivate cooperation and mutual understanding between the two regions.

According to THUCA President Calvin Loi from Macau, the association has grown rapidly, with approximately 600 members now actively participating, and a dedicated core group of about 60 individuals spearheading its initiatives.

“Founded just two years ago by a group of students, mostly from Malaysia, THUCA aims to equip future leaders with a deep understanding of regional dynamics," he told Bernama.

Loi also highlighted that Malaysian students form the largest group among ASEAN nationals at Tsinghua University, followed by Indonesians.

To reflect this demographic, the leadership team has adopted a dual presidency model, with one representative from China and one from ASEAN.

“This structure acknowledges that ASEAN students make up 60 to 65 per cent  of the membership, while Chinese students constitute 40 per cent,” he said.

The association is already making its mark with Loi leading a delegation to the ASEAN-China Week (ACW) 2024, highlighting the growing influence of the next generation in strengthening China-ASEAN ties.

Organised by the ASEAN-China Centre in partnership with Changzhi City, Shanxi, this year’s ACW provided Loi and his team with a valuable opportunity to observe the operational model of the extensive organisation and gain insights into the mutually beneficial relationships between China and ASEAN across various sectors.

He said ACW 2024 provided a profound immersion into Shanxi’s rich cultural heritage and valuable exposure to high-level meetings with regional leaders and diplomatic event planning.

“The opportunity to engage with distinguished representatives from various fields was particularly enriching,” he said.

Chan Wai Ling, a Master's of Law student at Tsinghua University, described her involvement in THUCA and ACW as an eye-opening experience that broadened her knowledge of regional development.

She emphasised that ACW provided in-depth insights into emerging industries and sectors, particularly energy and electric vehicles.

Meanwhile, Jazzlyn Jap, a fourth-year undergraduate in Information Systems and Management from Medan, Indonesia, and her brother Jusstin, a third-year student in Architecture participated in this year’s ASEAN-China Week.

Jazzlyn noted that the greatest benefit of joining this year’s ACW was not only gaining insights into regional development trends but also establishing valuable connections.

“It is a great opportunity to interact with prominent figures from various fields, including high-ranking government officials from China and ASEAN countries, all within a single event,” she said.

For Jusstin, the ACW is a crucial platform for establishing networks and gaining insights into how architects can contribute to the country.

Citing an example, he found his brief interactions with a Malaysian construction business representative particularly valuable in understanding the potential for construction and architecture in future societies.

He also emphasised the importance of firsthand experiences, such as attending the large-scale performance and situational play on heritage and the life cycle, “Pingyao Retrospect,” which deepened his understanding of the city’s cultural and historical heritage.

This year’s ACW featured a series of activities, including the ASEAN-China (Shanxi) Trade and Investment Promotion Seminar. The event also highlighted Shanxi’s cultural attractions, often described as a "treasure trove of Chinese history."

--BERNAMA