The interest in learning Chinese is surging among Cambodians, with many students at the Confucius Institute recognizing its utility for future job opportunities and cultural insights. The institute has facilitated improved relations between Cambodia and China, supporting over 130,000 students since its establishment in 2009. Individual learners express hopes to contribute to and benefit from the growing ties between the two nations.

In Phnom Penh, interest in the Chinese language is flourishing among Cambodians. Long Meikim, a 24-year-old civil servant, actively engaged in her Chinese class at the Confucius Institute of the Royal Academy of Cambodia. She believes acquiring Chinese proficiency will enhance her job performance and facilitate communication with the increasing number of Chinese visitors in Cambodia.

Meikim has been learning Chinese for four months, enabling her to understand basic vocabulary and communicate in simple situations. She emphasized the value of the Chinese language in her work, stating, “The Chinese language has helped me a lot in my current job. Moreover, nowadays, many Chinese people have come to Cambodia.” Her passion for Chinese culture and her admiration for China’s technological advancements reflect her aspiration to explore the country someday.

Echoing Meikim’s sentiments, Rorn Chanara, a 20-year-old student of Chinese literature, expressed that the growing presence of Chinese investments and tourists motivates his studies. He envisions that proficiency in Chinese will facilitate his future career opportunities, stating, “I think the Chinese language is good and will be useful for me in the future, helping me communicate well with Chinese people and get a proper job with a high income.” Chanara aspires to work as an interpreter for Chinese enterprises in Cambodia.

Niu Li, the Chinese director of the Confucius Institute, highlighted the institution’s role in fostering Cambodia-China relations since its establishment in 2009. The institute has evolved into a prominent center for Chinese education and cultural exchange, now serving over 130,000 registered students. Niu stated, “Our goal is to provide high-quality Chinese education to government officials, military personnel and learners from all walks of life.” The institute’s reach has expanded across several provinces, featuring numerous classroom settings and language centers.

Overall, the rising enthusiasm for the Chinese language among Cambodians reflects a broader trend of cultural exchange and economic cooperation between Cambodia and China. As individuals like Meikim and Chanara pursue their educational dreams, they contribute to strengthening the ties between the two nations.

The growing interest in the Chinese language among Cambodians signifies an increasing cultural and economic connection between Cambodia and China. As students like Long Meikim and Rorn Chanara learn Chinese, they not only enhance their career prospects but also foster closer relations between the two countries. The Confucius Institute plays a crucial role in this development, aiming to provide quality education to a diverse range of learners.

Original Source: www.thestar.com.my

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