China-Malaysia literary collaboration unveils ecological masterpiece

In 2024, commemorating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Malaysia, Guangxi Normal University Press Group and Asia Think Tank Company sealed a trade agreement at the World Trade Center Kuala Lumpur for the Bahasa Malaysia edition of Jiang Ru Lian (literally meaning "river as silk").

Authored by Ren Linju, the book offers a comprehensive portrayal of the Lijiang River's ecological development through historical and cultural lenses. Going beyond a mere historical narrative of the Lijiang River's ecological evolution, the book serves as a spiritual biography of its architects, delving into the social transformation of the area over the past decade. It presents a profound exploration of human emotions and experiences, weaving a compelling ecological narrative of harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature.

At the signing event, writers and scholars from both nations engaged in profound dialogues and knowledge exchanges. Ren expressed his deep childhood connection with the picturesque Guilin landscape and how creating Jiang Ru Lian allowed him to rediscover the essence of the Lijiang River.

Ren's extensive research journey, starting from the river's source at the Mao'er Mountain and spanning over 30 villages and islands, involved in-depth interviews with over 60 individuals. The book encapsulates the essence of ecological advancements in the region, covering topics such as wildlife conservation, forest fire prevention, industrial pollution control, sewage treatment, reservoir protection, and the delicate balance between ecological preservation and economic progress.

Xie Youshun, a professor of Chinese language and literature at Sun Yat-sen University, praised the book for depicting the spiritual landscape of mutual prosperity between humans and the river, offering a new vision for the human-nature relationship in contemporary China.

Liu Yulong, secretary-general of the Writers' Association of Chinese Medium of Malaysia, highlighted the flourishing Malaysian Chinese literary scene, with writers spanning three generations making significant contributions. Notably, authors like Li Zishu, whose novel Liu Su Di ("Land of Floating Customs"), has garnered a substantial readership in China, showcasing the rich literary tapestry between the two nations.