Latest news with #KishoKumariSucedaram
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
24-06-2025
- Business
- Barnama
World's First Zero-Carbon Port Eyes Southeast Asia Expansion, Targets 3.2 Mln TEUs In 2025
BUSINESS From Kisho Kumari Sucedaram TIANJIN, June 24 (Bernama) -- China's Tianjin Port, recognised as the world's first zero-carbon port, is setting its sights on expanding cargo routes to Southeast Asia as it targets to handle 3.2 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in 2025. The strategic move comes as part of the port's broader vision to boost regional connectivity and green trade under the Belt and Road Initiative. The port has built on its impressive growth from 2.83 million TEUs in 2023 to 23.29 million TEUs last year. Tianjin Port Operations Management manager Feng Miao said trade volumes to Southeast Asia continue to rise in tandem with the region's growing maritime corridor and container shipping network. 'We now have many direct routes to Bangladesh and Southeast Asia. One of the vessels here is currently en route to the region,' he told Bernama during a site visit to Tianjin Port recently. However, Feng did not disclosed the official figures on the current shipping size to the region. Tianjin Port was certified as zero carbon by the China Classification Society in 2022, marking a global first for the maritime logistics industry.
Barnama
05-06-2025
- Business
- Barnama
RCEP, ACFTA Key To Unlocking ASEAN-China Trade Potential - ASEAN Sec-Gen
BUSINESS From Kisho Kumari Sucedaram HUANGSHAN, June 5 (Bernama) -- Stronger grassroots implementation, simplified processes for businesses, and closer public–private partnerships are key to unlocking the full potential of regional trade pacts, according to ASEAN Secretary-General Dr Kao Kim Hourn. Kao was referring to the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the ASEAN-China Free Trade Area (ACFTA). He said the frameworks of both are complementary and critical in expanding market access, fostering resilient supply chains and enhancing regional competitiveness. 'Strong public–private partnerships are essential not only to help businesses integrate into regional value chains, but also to support them in scaling up operations and contributing to more responsive policymaking,' he said at the 2025 RCEP Local Governments and Friendship Cities Cooperation (Huangshan) Forum held here today. Kao also noted that micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), the backbone of the ASEAN economy, often face barriers in accessing financing and navigating complex regulations. In this regard, he encouraged local authorities to support MSMEs through targeted outreach, advisory services and simplified administrative processes. He commended the proactive efforts of cities and local governments in facilitating trade adoption through policy dialogues, capacity building and incentive schemes that are essential for helping businesses navigate technical trade rules and realise the benefits of both RCEP and ACFTA.
Barnama
27-05-2025
- Business
- Barnama
ASEAN, GCC And China - A New Power Bloc Of The Global South
From Kisho Kumari Sucedaram BEIJING, May 27 (Bernama) -- As the global economic uncertainty rages on following the United States' (US) sweeping tariffs, China sees the inaugural ASEAN-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)-China Summit in Kuala Lumpur today not merely as a diplomatic gathering but a pivotal moment in the rise of the Global South. For China, this tripartite meeting is far more than a symbolic gesture. It represents the emergence of a new economic and strategic axis, one that challenges traditional Western-dominated trade frameworks and offers an alternative vision of cooperative development. This was made evident when China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson, Mao Ning, remarked last week that China looks to expand practical cooperation with ASEAN and the oil-rich GCC member states in various fields to leverage their respective strengths, pursue win-win results and defend common interests of the Global South. It would be a coming together of ASEAN's quest to foster integration within Southeast Asia, GCC's aim to reduce dependence on oil and diversify the economy, and China's Belt and Road Initiative focusing on global infrastructure development strategies. Malaysia, as ASEAN Chair this year, is hosting the maiden ASEAN-GCC-China Summit which is set to unlock immense potential for multilateral cooperation. The combined weight of ASEAN, GCC and China is certainly reshaping the global economic dynamics. ASEAN, now the world's fifth-largest economy with a collective gross domestic product (GDP) of over US$3.6 trillion (US$1=RM4.22), is not just a manufacturing hub but also a burgeoning consumer market of 700 million people. On Sunday, Malaysia's Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz told a press conference that the collective ASEAN GDP is projected to grow at 4.7 per cent in 2025 from 4.2 per cent last year.
Barnama
26-05-2025
- Business
- Barnama
MayCham Steps Up Efforts To Attract GCC-China Investment Ahead Of ASEAN Summit
GENERAL From Kisho Kumari Sucedaram BEIJING, May 26 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Chamber of Commerce and Industry in China (MayCham) is stepping up efforts to strengthen ties with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations and China, viewing the upcoming ASEAN-GCC-China Summit as a timely platform to position Malaysia as a key investment destination in Southeast Asia. MayCham chairman Loh Wee Keng said the summit, scheduled for May 27, comes at a critical time for Malaysia to boost its global economic presence by aligning more closely with regional, Gulf and Chinese partners. 'Malaysia is a small country. If we work alone, our voice will not be heard. But through ASEAN and GCC cooperation, as well as alignment with China, this summit offers a unique opportunity for Malaysia to step into a more strategic role on the global stage,' he told Bernama recently. He said the current global economic slowdown, particularly in Europe and the United States, underscores the need to tap capital from the Middle East, which remains a strong source of investment. 'ASEAN-GCC-China collaboration is becoming increasingly relevant. The summit is a timely forum for Malaysia to showcase its growth-ready industries — from green energy to high technology, halal manufacturing and infrastructure. 'With MayCham's established presence in both China and Malaysia, we are in a good position to bridge investor interest from the GCC region,' said Loh. He noted that MayCham has actively cultivated relationships with Middle Eastern government agencies and corporates operating in China, and continues to advocate for Malaysia as a competitive, stable and strategically located investment hub.
