1 Dec 18
I had the opportunities to travel to China extensively over the last 30 years. From East to West, South to North and many remote provinces, my main observation of China is that China is on the move and moving too fast, many countries will be left behind.
So much historical information is seen through the lens of the western civilisation. Many historical facts are written and promulgated by western historians. Unfortunately many of these experts were ignorant of the eastern civilisation.
For the past 500 years, the powers are from the west and colonisation by these power were prevalent in the East. Slavery from the African nation was the hallmark of western supremacy and power.
The common usage of western languages allowed it to become official language for commerce and education. Rules and laws are based on western standard. Educational material too are mainly published by the west and translated for Asian consumption. Undoubtedly, mindset and values are heavily influenced the new generation of people. Norms are thus set according to western values. That is all right but when the values of eastern civilisation is challenged, it can cause disharmony and division.
So today most of Asian has a very favourable perceptions of the west. Subconsciously we are even influence by many biased perceptions of the East.
For me as a Singapore Chinese, it's quite alarming that many of our countrymen still harbour negative and biased thoughts of China. The real reason is the lack of understanding Chinese history and culture.
Our fore fathers had migrated to S E Asia due to economic hardship and has found their pot of gold. But nothing is static and it would be naïve to think the new found opportunities will last forever. I would not be surprised if future generations have to return to China to seek better opportunities.
I based my observation on my vast travel experiences in China over the last 30 years. Compare with developed countries, the infrastructure developed is beyond world class. Someday, other countries will have to benchmark it to Chinese standard.
One just to walk in any city centre, be it Beijing or 3 tiered cities, one would feel the vibrancy and sensed of development and modernity. E payment is the standard and I too believe China has set the benchmark for other countries to emulate.
No need to go further. One got to see and feel it China, be it in a village or a city.
