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Two international students, Kho Yap Hong from Malaysia and Nguyen Thi Thuy Van from Vietnam, are finding common ground in China through their shared passion for badminton and cultural exploration. During a recent roundtable discussion hosted by Shen Xiang on CGTN Sports Scene, they opened up about their unique experiences studying in China and how sports have bridged cultural gaps.
A Dream Come True in Beijing
Kho, a student at Beijing Sport University, has long felt a connection to China. “I visited China often as a child and always admired its rich culture and history,” he shared. His admiration was further fueled by his badminton coach, originally from Hunan Province, who shared stories about life in China. “Studying here is truly a dream come true,” Kho added.
As a former member of Malaysia’s junior national badminton team, Kho was inspired by renowned Chinese players. This admiration influenced his decision to pursue higher education in China. “Learning from professors who are former world champions enriches my experience every day,” he said.
Embracing Language and Sport
Nguyen, studying at Beijing Jiaotong University, discovered her love for China through television. “Watching Chinese historical dramas not only entertained me but also helped me learn the language,” she explained. An avid badminton player, Nguyen often played with her younger brother back home. “Badminton has always been a part of my life, and continuing it here has helped me feel at home,” she said.
Sports as a Cultural Bridge
Both students agree that badminton has been instrumental in making new friends and easing the transition into a new country. “Sports transcend language barriers,” Kho noted. Nguyen echoed this sentiment: “Through badminton, I’ve connected with people from all over the world. It’s amazing how a game can unite us.”
They believe that sports play a vital role in fostering international friendships and understanding. “Our shared passion brings us together, regardless of where we come from,” Nguyen said.
Looking Ahead
Kho and Nguyen are optimistic about their futures in China. They hope to continue building bridges between cultures through sports and shared interests. “We are ambassadors of our countries, and we have the opportunity to promote unity and collaboration,” Kho concluded.
