Members of the youth federation arrived at Liem Sioe Liong Memorial Hall on 22 May for an exchange and integration event themed “Sync Xinjiang to Fuqing, chasing dreams and building the future together”. The program was jointly organized by the Xinjiang Qitai County Communist Youth League Committee and the Youth Federation.

Led by Cheng Jianze, secretary of the county youth league committee, 18 youth federation members from education, finance, enterprise and other sectors in Qitai County toured the four exhibition halls. Through historical documents, physical exhibits and audiovisual materials, they learnt how Liem Sioe Liong and other overseas Chinese ventured to Southeast Asia, built industries and served their homeland, reflected on their contributions to reform and opening-up back home and explored new approaches to mobilize the diaspora solidarity in service of regional development to offer a replicable framework for Qitai’s external engagement.

At the end of the visit, representatives shared their reflections. 

I was deeply moved by the spirit of Mr. Liem. He set up his business from scratch, built up industries and served the nation. Working in youth organizations in Xinjiang’s Qitai County, we must guide our youth to inherit this legacy of grit and responsibility, think creatively to ride the waves of change, work hard to make every job extraordinary, step up for society, match our dreams with China’s future, and channel the young energy into China’s great national rejuvenation. 

Cheng Jianze

Secretary of Qitai County Youth League Committee

I gained a deeper understanding of Mr. Liem Sioe Liong’s character, life and his immense contributions to the society, the nation and in particular, his hometown Fuqing. He not only facilitated economic growth and industrial development in Fuqing but also made outstanding contributions to improving the infrastructure and supporting education and public welfare.

Mr. Liem’s life is the best interpretation of “circumstances create heroes, who in turn transform circumstances”. Through the visit and sharing of views, I learnt from him the virtues of great love and selflessness. As a youth of the new era, I recognize the need to adapt to the demands of our times, accumulate my strength, dedicate myself to Xinjiang’s development, and contribute to the society and our motherland with my humble efforts.

Liu Yue

Volunteer to Qitai County Western Region Program 

From Xinjiang’s Qitai County to the Liem Sioe Liong Memorial Hall, I was truly touched and have learnt so much from the visit. Mr. Liem said that everyone has roots and this matters. His words were absolutely true. Having ventured to Southeast Asia, worked up from the very bottom and struck it big, he never forgot where his roots were. Mirroring this sentiment were numerous records of his donations on display here at the memorial hall. He donated generously to fund development and building school in his hometown. I often tell myself we must never forget where we are from no matter how far our journey takes us to. Deep roots sustain great heights, like the poplar trees in Xinjiang. 

Mr. Liem’s story taught me that success isn’t a godsend; it’s earned through resilience and steadfast efforts. From fleeing for safety to entrepreneurship, his every step was arduous, yet he persevered. This spirit is especially worth emulating.

The visit set my heart at peace, feeling reassured. Mr. Liem’s life story teaches us to be down-to-earth in life and meticulous in tasks. Above all, we must never forget where our roots are. I will bring these lessons to Xinjiang and hold them in heart as my code of conduct for both life and actions.

Pan Cunyang

China Life Property & Casualty Insurance Co., Ltd

Qitai County Branch