Relations between China and Southeast Asian countries continue to deepen under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative. A shared history and cultural affinity are particularly evident in areas such as cuisine and tourism. The opening of Vietnamese restaurants in China’s Yunnan province and the introduction of Malaysia’s famous durian fruit into the Chinese market are vivid examples of this cultural exchange. A bowl of rice noodles or a tropical fruit leaves a lasting impression not only on the palate but also in the hearts of the two peoples.
Cooperation in education and tourism also stands out. Malaysian students studying at universities in Yunnan are not only advancing academically but also gaining a close-up experience of Chinese culture. Additionally, the rise in mutual visa-free travel and cross-border tourism between China and Vietnam is further strengthening people-to-people interaction. Joint events, cultural festivals, and language training programs demonstrate that the Belt and Road Initiative fosters not only economic ties but also human-centered connections.