There is a road named after Huang Nai Shang to commemorate him in Sibu, Malaysia. [Photo/WeChat account of Fujian Release]

In the state of Sarawak in Malaysia, the city of Sibu is known as the "New Fuzhou".

In this place, Fuzhou folks can hear their familiar hometown accents and indulge in traditional delicacies like fish balls and thin noodles.

Cultivating land, nurturing growth

A century ago, Wong Nai Siong, a Fuzhou native, led over a thousand people to Sibu. They toiled on barren soil, sowing crops, introducing rubber cultivation and constructing essential infrastructure such as schools, roads and factories.

This transformed Sibu into a bustling town and economic center in Sarawak.

Every March 16, Sibu commemorates the founding of the New Fuzhou settlement, celebrating the indomitable Fujianese spirit of resilience, collaboration and shared prosperity.

Forging bonds, fostering exchanges

Amid introducing cutting-edge production techniques to Sibu, Wong stressed the importance of preserving the national language and the Fuzhou dialect for future generations. Today, Sibu residents proudly uphold various Fuzhou traditions.

The sister-city relationships between Fujian province and Sarawak state, Putian city and Sibu city, as well as Ningde city and Sibu city, have facilitated extensive collaboration in commerce, trade and cultural spheres.

As a beacon of Fujian culture abroad, Sibu stands as a testament to the enduring friendship between the Chinese and Malaysian communities. It is believed that in the future, both sides will continue to write vibrant chapters of diverse cultures together.