During his tenure in Fuzhou, General Secretary Xi Jinping made 66 research trips to Fuqing and held 19 on-site meetings, leaving behind a rich legacy of intellectual insights and practical achievements. To deeper understand this as well as the struggles and patriotic spirit of overseas Chinese from Fuqing, two summer social practice teams, the Rural Outreach and the Youth Dream Builders, from Fujian Polytechnic Normal University’s School of Food and Bioengineering, visited the Liem Sioe Liong Memorial Hall on 6 July.

The Liem Sioe Liong Memorial Hall is not only a vital window showcasing the entrepreneurial history of overseas Chinese like Liem Sioe Liong but a historical testament to upholding the essence of the "3820" strategic project, which effectively put into practice the concept of attracting overseas Chinese, Taiwanese and foreign investments by leveraging the financial strength of overseas Chinese. Thanks to joint efforts of overseas Chinese community leader Mr. Liem Sioe Liong and the Fuzhou Municipal Government, the Yuanhong Investment Zone was established in 1992. Promoted by Comrade Xi Jingping who spearheaded economic development during his tenure as the Secretary of CPC Fuzhou Municipal Committee, the project marked a new phase of opening-up and foreign capital utilization in Fujian Province. Transformed to an industrial park, the Yuanhong Investment Zone now focuses on grain, oil, and food production, hosting numerous food processing enterprises and serving as the Chinese park participating in the China-Indonesia "Two Countries, Twin Parks" initiative.

Members of the two social practice teams visited the four exhibition halls, where artifacts condensed with history and yellowed photographs documenting bygone eras vividly illustrate the arduous entrepreneurial journeys of Fuqing-origin Chinese diaspora pioneers represented by Mr. Liem Sioe Liong. Crossing oceans and starting from scratch, they carved out success in a foreign land through tenacious perseverance and sharp business acumen. Throughout their endeavours, these pioneers remained deeply connected to their homeland, actively contributing to Fuqing’s reform, opening-up and socioeconomic development.

The trailblazing and integrative spirit of the Maritime Silk Road culture shone brilliantly in the struggles of these overseas Chinese pioneers. Team members witnessed how this culture transcends time and space, perpetuating values of openness, inclusiveness, and innovation through their endeavours. The profound love for both homeland embedded in the diaspora culture deeply moved every member present. They were taught the lesson that no matter how far one travels, one must keep his roots in mind and never forget the responsibility to help develop his hometown. 

Looking ahead, team members expressed their commitment to transform the inspiration drawn from this visit into motivation for study and life. Against the backdrop of rural revitalization, they pledged to leverage their expertise in "Food+" disciplines, engage actively in social practice, and contribute their youthful energy to local economic development. They vowed to never stop serving the nation and the people, shouldering the responsibility of our times.

Text: Qiu Mengrou, Student of Fujian Polytechnic Normal University

Photograph: Hong Ning