JOHOR BAHRU, July 16 — Dr. Kew Si Na, a Senior Lecturer from the Language Academy at the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities (FSSH), recently had the honour of representing Malaysia at the “Tsinghua Global Youth Dialogue (TGYD) 2025” organised by Tsinghua University and an academic visit to Tsinghua University through an invitation by the Young Malaysians Movement (YMM) Headquarters. With the theme “United Youth, Shared Future,” TGYD 2025 brought together inspiring youth leaders from over 20 countries across Asia, Europe, Africa, the Americas, and Oceania. Together, they experienced an eye-opening two-week journey through China’s dynamic development and global outreach. The programme took place from 28 June to 13 July, covering three major cities in China: Shenzhen, Guizhou, and Beijing.
In Shenzhen (29 June – 1 July), participants explored the frontlines of innovation and entrepreneurship in which they visited top tech companies, green development sites, talents park, learning about China’s advancements in AI and smart technologies and among others. In Guizhou (2 – 6 July), they took part in deep discussions on climate action, digital solutions, heritage preservation, bridges museum, Danzhai, Huangguoshu Waterfall and among others. The final stop in Beijing (7 – 13 July) featured a warm welcome at Tsinghua University, Tsinghua University campus tour, cultural showcases, keynote speeches, and high-level forums covering youth leadership and development, AI in education, civilizational innovation, campus tour and among others.
Remarkably, on 6 July, Dr. Kew spoke at the TGYD Guizhou Session during a panel on Cybersecurity and Technology Governance. She shared her reflections on the cultural performance Soaring Over Guizhou, describing it as a moving experience where tradition met cutting-edge technology. She also highlighted visits to a big data centre and an autonomous vehicle factory, which showcased Guizhou’s tech growth. Her message emphasized the power of youth to protect and promote tradition using digital tools in creative and respectful ways.
Dr. Kew returned to the stage on 9 July at the Civilizational Innovation Forum at Tsinghua University, where she spoke about Malaysia’s efforts to integrate AI into education and policy. She also presented at the Digital Revolution and Social Governance themed salon, focusing on how educational technology such as learning analytics can enhance communication skills among students in online and blended learning settings.
One of the most memorable moments came during her time in Guizhou, where she participated in Village T, a unique fashion show blending traditional Miao culture with modern design. The event, set along a village railway-turned-runway, featured locals and designers showcasing hand-embroidered pieces. Wearing a traditional Miao outfit, Dr. Kew joined in celebrating cultural heritage through creativity and collaboration.
Throughout the programme, Dr. Kew also joined a Youth Organizations Roundtable, exchanging ideas with fellow youth leaders and exploring opportunities for future partnerships. Her involvement not only amplified Malaysia’s voice on the global stage, but also demonstrated UTM’s dedication to global engagement, youth empowerment, and the role of technology in education. She returns with new insights, valuable connections, especially with Tsinghua University, and renewed passion to contribute to Malaysia’s progress in the age of the digital revolution.
