Publisher: United Daily News  

Date: December 12, 2024  

The “Heart Towards the Sun” Drama Workshop recently delivered a special lecture at Jinan University in Guangzhou, China, titled Drama Saves the Country - A Discussion on the Pre-World War II Overseas Chinese Drama Movement in Malaya. This event aimed to inspire students to delve into the history of Malaysian Chinese drama.

(At the lecture)

 Key Insights from the Lecture

Shen Guoming, a prominent figure in the field, highlighted the significance of Malaysian Chinese drama during the 1930s and 1940s. He explained how traditional local opera played a crucial role not only in supporting the Anti-Japanese War but also in fundraising for relief efforts. Shen emphasized that during this period, the Malayan Chinese community utilized drama as a means to unite various groups, including different hometown associations and immigrant communities. The emotional narratives and artistic expressions in these performances served as tools for enlightenment and national salvation.

As the focus shifted from anti-Japanese aid to China to anti-Japanese defense, Shen noted that people from diverse backgrounds in Malaya collaborated to resist imperialist aggression, showcasing a spirit of unity and cooperation.

Wu Erbeimi, Shen Guoming and Su Yunsheng (From left to right)

 Event Highlights

The lecture, hosted by Wu Erbeimi from the History Department at Jinan University, attracted around 50 attendees, including undergraduate and graduate students. Su Yunsheng, the director of the university's integrated media center, also participated. Recently returned from Malaysia, he expressed admiration for the commitment of Malaysian Chinese to preserving and promoting Chinese culture and education.

 Academic Collaborations

The Xin Xiang Sun Drama Workshop engaged in multiple academic exchanges with various departments at Jinan University. Notable participants included:

- Professor Zhang Yun, Director of the Southeast Asian Studies Institute

- Associate Professor Zhang Beiyu, School of International Relations

- Associate Research Librarian Yi Shuqiong, Library

- Associate Professors Long Yangzhi and Wen Mingming, Chinese Department

A highlight of the event was a guided tour by Director Wang Hua of the World Overseas Chinese Literature Museum, showcasing valuable documents and archival materials. Additionally, Shen Guoming donated several books on Malaysian Chinese drama to enhance the university's library collection.

 Shen Guoming (2nd from left) represents the Heart to Sun Drama Workshop in donating a series of dramas to the library of Jinan University, which is accepted by Wang Hua (2nd from right). Also present are Zhang Yun (far right) and Zhang Beiyu (far left).

The Heart to Heart Sun Drama Studio and Jinan University foster positive teacher-student exchanges. Pictured from left to right are Long Yangzhi, Shen Guoming, Yi Shuqiong, and Wen Mingming.

Wang Hua (right) personally guides Shen Guoming (center) through the valuable collection at the World Overseas Chinese Literature Museum at Jinan University. Also present is Zhang Yun (left).

This lecture and exchange not only fostered academic collaboration but also reinforced the cultural ties between Malaysia and China, emphasizing the importance of preserving and understanding the rich history of Chinese drama in Malaysia.