Thai girls explore the past and present in -Chinese style-

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**Interview with a Thai Student Embracing Chinese Culture**

In a recent discussion, I had the pleasure of speaking with Ong Minling, a Thai girl deeply enchanted by Chinese traditional attire and culture. She expressed her enthusiasm, saying, “I’ve worn qipaos, Hanfu, and costumes from various ethnic groups like the Miao, Dai, Zhuang, and Tibetan. The craftsmanship and vibrant colors of these outfits are stunning! I’m even eager to experience clothing from the Han and Tang dynasties, hoping to one day own my own piece of traditional Chinese apparel.”

Ong Minling’s fascination with Chinese culture began at a young age, thanks to her mother’s encouragement to learn Mandarin. In 2019, she took a significant step by participating in an exchange program in Tianjin during her undergraduate studies. Currently, she is pursuing her master’s degree in International Chinese Education at Guangxi University.

Her passion for Chinese history and culture shines through as she shares her experiences. “Wearing Song dynasty clothing and taking pictures by the lotus pond at Guangxi University felt like stepping back in time, immersed in the poetry of ‘the little lotus just shows its sharp tip.’ When I donned a gorgeous Miao costume while wandering through ancient towns in Guizhou, it felt as if I truly became a Miao girl,” she reflected.

Ong Minling also invests time in watching videos that delve into the cultural significance of Chinese traditional clothing. “Whenever I see Chinese traditional outfits, I can’t help but stop and admire them. Each time I dress up, I make sure to put on a detailed makeup look to complement the beauty of the attire,” she explained.

Adjusting to life in China has been seamless for her. “Living here is incredibly convenient; all you really need is your smartphone,” she noted, expressing her love for urban exploration. She added that the vibrant lifestyle of the Chinese people only fuels her desire to learn more about Chinese culture.

The collaboration between Thailand and China has flourished in various sectors, giving the youth from both nations ample opportunities to engage with one another. In September, Ong Minling contributed to the 21st China-ASEAN Expo by assisting Thai exhibitors with translation, an experience she found immensely rewarding.

“Thailand and China share a close relationship, providing us with numerous development opportunities. Many people around me are intrigued by Chinese culture and are learning Mandarin. In the future, I aspire to become a Chinese teacher or possibly teach Thai in China, contributing to the cultural exchange between our two nations,” she concluded.