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Japan Forward
15-07-2025
- Politics
- Japan Forward
In Next Dalai Lama Search, China Should Keep Its Nose Out
このページを 日本語 で読む The 14th Dalai Lama, the supreme leader of Tibetan Buddhism, has declared that his successor will be selected by the traditional method. That means, after his death, a search will be conducted by Tibetans themselves to identify his "reincarnation." Only the person they identify will become the 15th Dalai Lama. "They should accordingly carry out the procedures of search and recognition in accordance with past tradition.... No one else has any such authority to interfere in this matter," the Dalai Lama said. This statement amounted to a stern declaration to the Chinese communist authorities not to interfere in the process. The People's Republic of China has already announced a policy of not recognizing anyone other than its own candidate to become the 15th Dalai Lama. However, there is no way that the Tibetan people will look up to an illegitimate "imposter Dalai Lama." Beijing should end its inhumane, forced assimilation policies and respect Tibetan religion and culture. The 14th Dalai Lama turned 90 on July 6. At the age of two, he was recognized by the Tibetan government at the time as the reincarnation of the 13th Dalai Lama. He was formally installed in that position in 1940, at the age of four. Chinese police patrol in front of the Potala Palace in Tibet's capital Lhasa in a file photo. (Radio Free Asia via Central Tibetan Administration) However, the People's Liberation Army occupied Tibet in 1951, and the resistance efforts in various places were harshly suppressed. As a result, the 14th Dalai Lama fled Tibet's ancient capital of Lhasa in 1959. He thereafter established a government in exile in Dharamsala in northern India. The year 2025 marks 60 years since China established the Tibet Autonomous Region with Lhasa as its capital in 1965. Ever since, Beijing has encouraged large numbers of Han Chinese to migrate to the region. It has also implemented an assimilation policy designed to strip Tibet of its unique culture and religion. As a result, portraits and photographs of the 14th Dalai Lama have been removed from Buddhist temples and other buildings and replaced by images of Chinese President Xi Jinping. Government security personnel are regularly stationed at temples in Tibet, and numerous surveillance cameras have been installed in their precincts. In effect, the Tibetan people are forced to practice their faith under smothering controls amidst a pervasive atmosphere of fear. Followers of Tibetan Buddhism believe the Dalai Lama to be an incarnation of the Bodhisattva Kannon. But he is more than just a religious leader. Since the 17th century, the Dalai Lama has also led the Tibetan government. As its highest authority, he has also been a figure uniting religion and the state. Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, exchanges greetings with former US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi in June 2023 (©REUTERS) Regardless of the prohibitions issued by the Chinese government, ordinary Tibetans continue to display portraits and photographs of the Dalai Lama in their homes. China should not turn a blind eye to the reality that the Dalai Lama continues to be a pillar of spiritual support for the Tibetan people. Ever since he began his self-exile, the 14th Dalai Lama has consistently maintained a non-violent stance. Meanwhile, he has also spread awareness of the reality of Chinese oppression to the world. In 1989, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his contributions to world peace, religion, and culture. Regarding this latest statement on reincarnation, the international community, including Japan, should support the position of the 14th Dalai Lama. It must not accept Chinese intervention in a purely Tibetan matter. Author: Editorial Board, The Sankei Shimbun このページを 日本語 で読む
Deccan Herald
28-06-2025
- Politics
- Deccan Herald
Dalai Lama reincarnation: Contest over the soul of Tibet
As the 14th Dalai Lama celebrates his 90th birthday on July 6, all eyes are on his expected announcement on his reincarnation. He, himself, stated that the 15th Dalai Lama would be found in the 'free world'. China, which 'liberated' Tibet in 1951 with a military invasion, on the other hand, declared its intention to select the next Dalai Lama through a 'golden urn' lottery process. Beijing hopes to create some confusion among the Tibetans on the issue of the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama. It had done the same in the case of Panchen Lama, the second-highest monk after the Dalai Lama in Tibetan Buddhism. China expects the move will also pave the way for its unbridled influence over Tibet. Earlier, in 1995, when the Dalai Lama recognised Gedhun Choekyi Nyima as the 11th Panchen Lama, China put him under house arrest and, instead, selected Gyaltsen Norbu for the position through a "golden urn" process. Gyaltsen Norbu today occupies important political positions in communist China. He is a member of the standing committee of China's People's Political Consultative Conference and the vice president of the Buddhist Association of China. He is also seen touring Tibet and meeting political leaders of Lama @90: The monk who still scares the since President Jiang Zemin's time, stated that it will resort to the "golden urn" process in the case of the 15th Dalai Lama as well. Moreover, in August 2020, the Tibet Forum Meeting – one of the highest decision-making bodies in communist China – declared 'sinicisation' of Tibetan Buddhism to convert all aspects in Tibet into Han Chinese practices with socialist interpretations, despite the promises of it made in the 1951 17-point agreement for the autonomy of Tibetans. The Dalai Lama would not like to see Chinese-induced chaos destroying the Tibetan identity and way of life. In 2011, the Dalai Lama transferred his temporal powers to the popularly elected Sikyong (the prime minister). The exiled Tibetans, since then, took part in the elections of the Sikyong thrice, while Tibet under China had never witnessed popular elections. China's concern is also that, despite its seven decades of tight rule over Tibet since 1951 and assimilation policies, an estimated 97% of Tibetans in Tibet still revere the 14th Dalai Lama. China shudders to think of Tibet slipping from its tight embrace. Spiritually, the Dalai Lama's declaration on his 90th birthday is expected to be endorsed by the key head monks from Mongolia (the originator of the Dalai Lama institution) and those now living in India, Nepal, Bhutan and other countries. The Dalai Lama also has significant influence in the United States (which passed the Tibet Policy and Support Act of 2020 and Tibet Reciprocity Act of 2018), the European Union, Japan, Australia and other countries. Such a contest over the future Dalai Lama has ramifications for not only the Tibetan community but also to the trans-Himalayan belt. With its $19 trillion GDP, China intends to influence the region through infrastructure connectivity and military mobilisation, while the Dalai Lama wants to protect the soul of Tibet and his Lama says his successor to be born outside India, which had borders with Tibet historically, the Dalai Lama's succession creates uncertainties along the current borders, as the Galwan clashes in 2020 and the current full-scale border mobilisation indicate. India also has to factor China's 628 dual-use 'well-off society' villages in the border areas, as nearly 200 such 'villages' were constructed on the path of the Dalai Lama's flight in 1959. Besides, India is also aware of the irredentist Chinese claims on not only Tawang but also the whole of Arunachal Pradesh. India also has to cope with the fragile trans-Himalayan law and order situation. Despite heavy political and military pressure from China, India has vowed to protect and further the identity of the Tibetans living in India and termed the 14th Dalai Lama as a "spiritual" leader. New Delhi is likely to stick to its position in the case of the 15th Dalai Lama too..(The writer is a Professor of Chinese Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University)
Barnama
24-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Barnama
- Move On From K-Pop! Beijing's Cool Kids Are Rocking 1000-Year-Old Fashions
24/06/2025 03:34 PM Opinions on topical issues from thought leaders, columnists and editors. By : Kisho Kumari Sucedaram Walking through the ancient streets of Beijing's Beihai Park, the Drum Tower, the Forbidden City or Shichahai, one might feel as though they have stepped into a time machine. Young Chinese men and women, dressed in flowing silk robes adorned with intricate embroidery and elaborate headpieces, pose gracefully against the backdrop of imperial-era architecture. But this is no historical re-enactment. It is part of a growing cultural movement among China's youth, who are proudly reviving traditional Hanfu attire and transforming the city's historic landmarks into vibrant photoshoot locations. As a foreigner living in China for the three-month China International Press Communication Centre (CIPCC) programme, I am continually amazed by how deeply the younger generation is reconnecting with their heritage and celebrating centuries-old traditions in such a modern and expressive way. File photo A cultural movement beyond fashion What makes this trend even more compelling is how it has grown beyond the realm of fashion to become a vibrant cultural movement. Social media platforms such as Xiaohongshu (Little Red Book), Douyin (China's TikTok), WeChat and Weibo are teeming with Hanfu enthusiasts showcasing their styled outfits, sharing historical insights and recommending picturesque photoshoot spots. These online communities don't just exist in the digital world – they organise large-scale meet-ups where hundreds come together to celebrate traditional festivals through poetry recitals, tea ceremonies and classical musical performances. In doing so, they transform the city into a living, breathing tribute to China's rich cultural heritage. File photo A revival of dynastic fashion Hanfu, the traditional attire of the Han Chinese, dates back thousands of years, with each dynasty leaving its distinctive imprint on style, fabric and silhouette. Today, Hanfu enthusiasts are reviving this ancient aesthetics with remarkable accuracy, often appearing like characters stepped straight out of a historical drama. Walking through the city feels like wandering through a film set from imperial China. Some wear Tang-style Hanfu, known for its wide sleeves, high-waisted skirts and vibrant colours. Women often don the ruqun – a blouse with a high waistline paired with a flowing skirt – complete with ornate hairpins reminiscent of Tang dynasty nobility. Others embrace Ming-era fashion, including the aoqun (a jacket with a pleated skirt) and the zhishen, a formal robe for men characterised by its round collar and wide belt. While the movement is especially popular among women, many men have also embraced Hanfu culture, wearing scholar's robes or warrior-style attire that reflect the grace or ancient literati or the valour of imperial guards. File photo The business of tradition Behind the glamorous photoshoots lies a thriving industry. Small businesses specialising in Hanfu rentals, photography and accessories have flourished, particularly around historical landmarks. Many shops now offer immersive experiences, allowing customers to spend the day dressed in period-accurate attire while learning ancient etiquette, calligraphy or traditional dance. For many young Chinese, wearing Hanfu is not just about aesthetics – it is a powerful expression of cultural pride. 'I feel connected to my heritage when I wear this,' said Xi Xia, a 24-year-old university student posing near the Drum Tower in a Tang-style ensemble. She said this is not just a costume but a part of who the Chinese people are. However, these experiences come at a price. A full Hanfu photoshoot package – which typically includes costume rental, makeup and a professional photographer – can range from RMB450 to RMB2,000 (about RM270 to RM1,200), depending on the intricacy of the design and service. The demand has created a booming cottage industry. Many shops near tourist attractions offer a full suite of services, from costumer styling to elaborate makeup, catering to locals and visitors alike. File photo A bridge between generations Interestingly, the Hanfu revival is not confined to the younger generation. Grandparents often accompany their grandchildren to photoshoots, sharing childhood memories and stories tied to traditional attire. In this way, Hanfu becomes more than a fashion statement – it serves as a cultural bridge, connecting generations through shared heritage and storytelling. Foreigners fascinated by the trend For many tourists, stumbling upon these photoshoots feels like witnessing a living museum – where history, fashion and culture merge in real time. Even some foreign visitors have joined in, donning Hanfu at popular parks to immerse themselves in the experience. 'It's breathtaking to see these young people embracing their history so passionately - unlike anything I have seen in Europe,' said Emma, a 35-year-old tourist from France. For China's youth, the past is not merely remembered - it is lived. And in the heart of Beijing, the dynasties endure, one photoshoot at a time. One can only Imagine how powerful such a revival could be elsewhere. Picture Malaysians dressed in graceful songket and baju kurung, strolling through Taman Tasik Perdana. Or posing in royal Pahang silk against the modern architectural backdrop of Putrajaya's mosques. Visualise scenes of ancient Melakan court attire recreated at Tugu Negara, or the vibrant elegance of cheongsam and saree brought to life in Kuala Lumpur's botanical gardens. Culture, after all, is not just history. It is identity and, above all, it is pride. -- BERNAMA Kisho Kumari Sucedaram is a journalist with BERNAMA. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and AWS and do not reflect the official policy or position of BERNAMA)
Barnama
22-05-2025
- Business
- Barnama
- Inner Mongolia, A Blend Of Rich Heritage And Modern Progress
Opinions on topical issues from thought leaders, columnists and editors. In fact, fewer people are aware that Inner Mongolia is a vibrant and dynamic autonomous region of China, where ancient customs and modern progress exist side by side in remarkable harmony. Some even mistakenly believe that Inner Mongolia is part of the sovereign nation of Mongolia. It is not. When one thinks of Mongolia, images of vast grasslands, wild horses, and people in traditional Mongolian attire often come to mind. Many of us, too, had assumed that Inner Mongolia was defined solely by its cultural heritage and scenic landscapes – until we saw how much more it has to offer. A group of 23 journalists from across the Asia-Pacific region recently took part in a visit to Inner Mongolia, organised by the China Public Diplomacy Association and The Global Times, to witness the region's development first-hand. While its rich cultural heritage continues to captivate visitors, Inner Mongolia is also making strides in technology, green energy, and sustainable economic growth -showing the world that it is far more than just a scenic landscape. The Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region in northern China is frequently mistaken for its neighbouring country, Mongolia. However, the two are entirely distinct. Inner Mongolia has been an integral part of China for centuries and serves as a cultural crossroads for various ethnic groups, including Mongols, Han Chinese, and others. Despite its deep-rooted nomadic traditions, the region has embraced modern development while maintaining a strong sense of cultural identity. Bilingual street signs in Mongolian and Chinese, traditional festivals such as the Nadam Fair, and the iconic 'salty' milk tea all reflect this rich fusion of heritage and modern life. Yet beyond the surface of cultural vibrancy lies a rapidly transforming economy – one that is increasingly powered by innovation and sustainable growth. Hohhot, where tradition meets innovation Hohhot, the regional capital, is known as the 'Blue City', a name derived from the Mongolian word Kökeqota but beyond its poetic nickname, the city has earned another title too, China's Dairy Capital. Home to Yili Group, one of the world's top five dairy producers, Hohhot has transformed into a hub of agricultural technology. The Yili Modern Intelligent Health Valley, a sprawling 120-square-kilometre development, showcases this transformation. Visitors could witness robotic milking systems, AI-driven production lines as well as sustainable farming practices here. This 'Dairy Silicon Valley' is not just a manufacturing base but a testament to how traditional industries could evolve through innovation. New faces of Inner Mongolia While grasslands and deserts still define much of Inner Mongolia's vast landscape, the region is rapidly emerging as a leader in digital innovation and renewable energy. At the forefront of this transformation is the Inner Mongolia Data Exchange Centre – the region's only official platform for data transactions. By enabling secure and efficient data trading, the centre is positioning Inner Mongolia as a vital hub in China's tech-driven economic growth. In Ulanqab, a city traditionally celebrated as the 'Potato Capital', major strides are being made in green technology. According to Shudu Kaida Food Co. Ltd, the Kaida Potato Park – currently under development – is expected to become Asia's largest potato industry base by 2026. The company has earned international acclaim for its high-quality potato-based snacks, which are exported to over 30 countries. Another significant milestone in Ulanqab is the establishment of the Yunda Holdings Northern Headquarters, which houses China's first 13-megawatt onshore wind turbine testing platform. This facility not only marks a leap in wind energy technology but also reinforces China's broader goals for green energy advancement. Even agriculture in Inner Mongolia is embracing innovation. In Chayouqian Banner, the Cold-Tolerant Vegetable Academician Workstation has successfully developed crop varieties that can survive harsh winters, converting previously barren land into productive farmland. Also, in Chayouqian, a high-tech Plant Factory Complex is cultivating strawberries year-round using controlled-environment technology. These premium strawberries yield 15 times more than conventional methods and are sold at high market value, demonstrating how cutting-edge agricultural solutions are revitalising rural economies and improving local livelihoods. Beyond tourism - factories, labs and trade corridors While tourism remains an important pillar of Inner Mongolia's economy – with scenic destinations like the Chilechuan Grassland drawing visitors eager to experience its rich nomadic culture – the region is steadily diversifying into sectors far beyond its traditional image. One standout initiative is by M·Grass, a company specialising in ecological restoration, which has successfully rehabilitated more than 2.2 million hectares of degraded land using advanced seed technology. Their work reflects Inner Mongolia's growing reputation as a hub for sustainable development and innovation. The Qisumu International Logistics Park, covering 14 square kilometres, has emerged as a vital trade artery linking China with neighbouring countries such as Mongolia and Russia, facilitating cross-border commerce and boosting regional connectivity. Complementing these industrial strides are ongoing efforts in desertification control and grassland restoration, underscoring the region's long-term commitment to environmental preservation. In terms of economic performance, Hohhot recorded a fiscal revenue of 25.48 billion yuan in 2024, reflecting a 7.8 per cent year-on-year increase, while Ulanqab's gross regional product rose by 5.4 per cent, pointing to steady growth across sectors. A significant infrastructure milestone was marked on 14 May 2025 with the groundbreaking ceremony for the Gantsmod–Gashuunsukhait Railway, a new cross-border transport link between China and Mongolia. Once completed in 2027, the railway is expected to handle up to 30 million tonnes of freight annually – dramatically improving energy trade logistics and strengthening economic ties between the two nations. As Inner Mongolia continues to evolve, it is proving to be far more than just a cultural treasure. For those who still picture only yurts and horseback riding, a closer look reveals a dynamic region teeming with factories, research hubs, green innovations, and international trade corridors – a land of growing promise and limitless potential. -- BERNAMA Kisho Kumari Sucedaram is a journalist with BERNAMA.
Sky News AU
16-05-2025
- Politics
- Sky News AU
Australian Dr Yang Hengjun's gruelling existence inside Chinese prison revealed after he receives a suspended death sentence
As I type this at my desk in the autumn sunshine, I imagine Dr Yang writing his open letter to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, hunched over the edge of the prison bed, with his precious pen (only allowed at specific hours), weary from the factory work he has to endure, and self-conscious that his handwriting is wobbly because he is so weak. In contrast to his message of strength and positivity, even with the cloud of a suspended death sentence hanging over him. 'I feel all of your support beside me as I stagger through the hardest and darkest chapter of my life, allowing me to immerse in the warmth of humanity,' he wrote. 'It has helped me to understand the value of words and deeds of a government of the people, by the people, for the people - to enable me to fully understand the true meaning of being an Australian citizen.' The letter, dated January 10, has just been given the greenlight to be published by Dr Yang's representatives. It thanks the Prime Minister for advocating for him, the Foreign Minister for her letter, as well as others who have not forgotten his plight. 'At this moment of seeing out the old year and bringing in the new, on the sixth anniversary of my imprisonment, I really want to show how grateful I am to you and everyone who is caring for and supporting me,' Dr Yang wrote. 'I have written millions of words over my career but I can't find the words to properly express my heartfelt gratitude and feeling. 'Your Excellency, respected Prime Minister, you have repeatedly conveyed your grave concerns about my case and deteriorating health to China's paramount leader. You have advocated for me in all ways you can, and also provided practical help to me and my family, along with spiritual support. 'Her Excellency Foreign Minister Penny Wong sent me a letter which greatly encouraged me and helped me to maintain strength, resilience and courage. Members of Parliament, Party leaders, and leaders of several government ministries have all stretched out their helping hands to me and my family. Australian and international organisations, and many of my intellectual and media colleagues, have not forgotten me or allowed me to let me sink into helpless limbo.' As someone who suffered a similar but shorter incarceration, I know a little of what that felt like, grasping the messages of support to repel the darkness within. Matthew Radalj, an Australian businessman unjustly imprisoned for five years in the same jail as Dr Yang, who was released last October, says while Dr Yang is treated better than the African/Pakistani inmates in that prison: 'Sadly the Chinese government has never viewed ethnic Han Chinese with foreign passports as anything else other than Chinese, unless it's under immense pressure from the Australian government, the Chinese side won't even consider a transfer.' Dr Yang is forced to carry out gruelling work for the prison's electronics factory which requires him to sit at a table with his head bowed for eight hours a day, five days a week. It takes a toll on the back, neck and eyesight due to the bad lighting. Even that is already a special job for a select few inmates, because it pays around $10 a month. According to professor Chongyi Feng, Dr Yang's spokesperson, when Yang's health doesn't allow him to work he is given the 'special privilege' of doing the cleaning. Dr Yang has had a few fainting episodes due to malnutrition and other health problems. It's something Mr Radalj is all too familiar with. 'No matter what I did, I was always malnourished, always tired, always had a headache, it's not easy at all…I feel so sorry for Dr Hengjun,' he said. 'Beijing No.2 Prison is very, very hard, it's a place where the only resource in abundance is hopelessness.' Compared to the US and Canada, whose Chinese embassies visit their citizens in prison every month and have consular agreements that specify their citizens get 2kg food packages monthly, Australian consular visits to prison are once every three months and even after prisoners' lobbying, the consular agreement hasn't been updated to include food package requirements. To frustrate anyone trying to assess or improve Dr Yang's health, the Chinese authorities have refused to show him or the embassy officials his medical reports. He doesn't dare believe what the prison doctors tell him, which is that the kidney cyst isn't big enough to be operated on. Mr Radalj agrees with Dr Yang's scepticism. 'They have the facilities to help you, they have the ability to fix your ailment but they refuse to,' he said. 'They leave conditions until they become so bad that they have to operate on you or provide you treatment so that you don't die, but not because they want to ease your suffering, only so you can finish your sentence.' Dr Yang ended his letter with the words of Martin Luther King. 'Dear Prime Minister Albanese, words are now failing me. Tears blur my vision. I can only use a silent voice to thank you and all the people who care for and love me,' he wrote. 'I know you and the Australian Government endeavour to do your utmost to bring me home for medical care and reunification with my family. I believe as long as we are together, with conviction and confidence, aspiration and determination, all dreams should come true, one day! I have a dream: let peace win, let humanity gain, let love prevail, let freedom ring.' As the Australian Prime Minister starts a fresh term with a new team, ears ringing with the Chinese President's congratulations and calls for deeper cooperation, the uncomfortable issue of China's treatment of an imprisoned Australian citizen may not be a priority. For China, domestic issues also trump foreign relations for now. But when Prime Minister Albanese meets Chinese leaders for talks, expected later this year, as he tries to keep the volatile giant trading partner on side while keeping true to our values and speaking up for our interests – perhaps he will remember Dr Yang writing to him on his prison stool in the dim cell lighting, grateful to be Australian and hoping for freedom. Cheng Lei joined Sky News Australia as a TV news presenter and columnist at in December 2023. Prior to her role at Sky News Australia, she was a news anchor for Chinese-owned news channel CGTN and was CNBC's China correspondent. In August 2020, Cheng Lei was detained by Chinese authorities. She was released and returned to Australia in October 2023.
