From July 28 to August 10, 2025, in line with China's emphasis on ecological protection under the guidance of President Xi Jinping, the Maritime Silk Road scientific expedition team of Nanjing University, led by Professor Guo Hongyan, conducted scientific research in Malaysia.

During the two-week visit, the 21-member team conducted fieldwork in Penang, Kuala Lumpur, and Johor. The team also visited several universities such as the University of Science, Malaysia (USM), the University of Malaya (UM), and the Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), as well as multiple research institutions, nature reserves, and communities. They carried out in-depth studies on ecological protection, pollution control, and climate change response. They observed systemic challenges in balancing environmental protection and industrial development in Malaysia.

China and Malaysia share a long history of interaction. Dating back to the formation of the South China Sea routes during the Han Dynasty, Admiral Zheng He's seven voyages to the Western Oceans in the Ming Dynasty, and the close cooperation seen today, all these events reflect the profound friendship between the two nations. Young scholars from both countries strengthened academic collaboration and cultural dialogue under the spirit of the Maritime Silk Road.

At Universiti Sains Malaysia, the team engaged in discussions on topics such as microplastic degradation and marine ecology, and members were impressed by cutting-edge studies on Antarctic soil microbiota. Universiti Malaya showcased the integration of science and humanities, promoting citizen science practices in unique ways. Meanwhile, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia's field-based teaching highlighted the dialectical relationship between environment and development through concrete case studies.

Centering on the core theme of "Global Climate Change and Environmental Pollution Governance", the team embraced the motto "Connected by the same waters, sharing the rain and clouds", reflecting the interconnected waterways and shared cultural ties of the Maritime Silk Road. This vision outlines three actionable directions for youth along the Maritime Silk Road: pursuing green development together, practicing youth cooperation, and advancing toward a shared future for all.

Through this expedition, the team members realize that addressing climate change, protecting biodiversity, and preserving cultural heritage require a globally resonant knowledge network. Let us join hands, follow the principles of nature to nurture all life, contribute to global ecological and environmental governance, and ensure a sustainable future for every life on this blue planet.

Source: NJU Maritime Silk Road scientific expedition team

Writer and photographer: Han Yinhang