Traditional Chinese hanfu makes mark in Malta

VALLETTA — Enthusiasts of Chinese culture in Malta can now learn all about hanfu, the traditional style of clothing worn by the Han people, thanks to a new cultural platform dubbed the "Hanfu Costume Society" that was launched at the island's China Cultural Center on Friday.

The initiative is expected to enhance cultural exchange between China and Malta and showcase the richness of traditional culture, Yuan Yuan, director of the China Cultural Center, said at the launch event.

Hanfu is know for its distinctive design, exquisite craftsmanship, and cultural significance. The historical form of dress has been rediscovered by young Chinese, with more and more opting to wear it.

Yu Cheng, who has lived in Malta for nearly five years, has decided to share her exquisite collection of hanfu whenever the China Cultural Center hosts hanfu-themed activities, allowing participants to travel through time by trying on some of her 40-plus traditional garments.

"This is my opportunity to participate in the dissemination of Chinese culture, and to allow more people to understand and fall in love with it through the allure of traditional Chinese clothing," says Yu, who is responsible for managing the hanfu society.

Her passion for traditional clothing led her to include styles dating back to the Western Han (206 BC-AD 24), the Tang (618-907), the Song (960-1279), and the Ming (1368-1644) Dynasties in her collection. About half are custom-made, with some made from silk by people who practice the art of making kesi, a form of silk tapestry, and Suzhou embroidery.

Wearing hanfu has become part of daily life for Yu. She wears different outfits when she goes out for a stroll or shopping, inevitably attracting curiosity.

"Gradually, more and more people realize that traditional Chinese clothing is rich and beautiful. Many people are attracted to it, and I feel very proud," she says. "I aspire to contribute with my efforts to preserving and promoting traditional Chinese culture."

The China Cultural Center will build on Yu's initiative by purchasing more hanfu outfits, both for exhibition purposes and for people to try on.