The Root of Identity: Overseas Chinese and a Sense of Belonging
This article explores the complex question of identity and belonging, particularly for Chinese people living overseas. It delves into the feeling of disconnect that many experience in modern China and contrasts it with the strong sense of cultural preservation and community found in Malaysia.
The Lost Connection in China
Many overseas Chinese, and even Malaysians of Chinese descent, often grapple with the question of their roots. While they may identify as descendants of the dragon or the Yellow Emperor, this connection can feel like a symbolic notion rather than a deeply felt belonging.
A Disconnect from Ancestry
-
The speaker notes that in China, it's becoming increasingly difficult to pinpoint one's origins due to internal migration and shifting family histories.
-
Many families have lost their complete family memories, often due to historical events like the Cultural Revolution.
Eroded Family Traditions
Traditional celebrations and customs, such as family feasts and the emphasis on familial connections, are becoming less prevalent in Chinese cities. The very concept of family seems to be slowly diminishing. This contrasts sharply with the speaker's experience in Malaysia.
Cultural Preservation in Malaysia
Upon arriving in Malaysia, the speaker was struck by the preservation of traditional Chinese culture, which they found to be even stronger than in mainland China. Festivals are celebrated with vibrant displays, such as red lanterns, martial arts performances, and temple visits, demonstrating a deep-seated cultural connection.
Strong Family Lineage
Unlike the speaker's experience in China, where family history felt fragmented, they encountered a Malaysian Chinese friend whose family meticulously maintained their lineage.
-
The friend's name, along with those of his ancestors, followed a specific alphabetical order, preserving a multi-generational connection to their heritage.
-
Temple records document the ancestral origins of many Malaysian Chinese families, tracing their roots back to regions like Fujian, Chaozhou, and Hakka.
A Warm Community
The speaker highlights the genuine warmth and connection among people in Malaysia. Even strangers readily exchange smiles, reflecting a sense of community and shared humanity that the speaker found lacking in China.
Reclaiming a Sense of Belonging
The speaker argues that in Malaysia, the idea of being a descendant of the dragon isn't just a national slogan, but a lived experience characterized by strong family ties, respect for ancestors, and adherence to tradition. This sense of belonging, rooted in blood, history, and shared values, is what many in the speaker's generation yearn for.
Finding Home in a Foreign Land
The speaker concludes by expressing their profound sense of belonging in Malaysia. Despite being a foreigner, they felt a connection to the land and its culture that resonated deeply, leading them to choose Malaysia as their new home.