Mithilesh Tew takes part in a dragon dance at the University of Nottingham Ningbo China. [Photo by UNNC for Ningbo Daily]

This summer, Malaysian student Mithilesh Tew from the University of Nottingham Malaysia gained a deep cultural experience while participating in a dragon dance at the University of Nottingham Ningbo China, leaving a lasting impression on peers and social media audiences.

Dressed in traditional red, Tew skillfully handled the dragon, a centuries-old Chinese folk art symbolizing power and good fortune. The video of his performance received widespread attention from Chinese and Malaysian students. Many noted the shared cultural resonance despite growing up in different countries.

With Fujian heritage, Tew's family has maintained strong ties to the Chinese language and traditions, emphasizing the importance of remembering one's roots. Classical stories such as Journey to the West and Romance of the Three Kingdoms shaped his early understanding of Chinese culture.

Arriving in Ningbo as an exchange student in 2024 to study computer science, Tew was impressed by the integration of the curriculum with programs in Malaysia and the United Kingdom. Beyond academics, he explored historical and cultural sites such as the Tianyige Museum and the Old Bund, while trying local and regional cuisine. He also enjoyed original Chinese milk tea brands, noting their striking similarity to those popular in Malaysia.

Tew's experience reflects a growing trend of Malaysian students engaging deeply with Chinese culture in Ningbo, combining academic learning with immersive cultural exchange, and forming enduring friendships that bridge national boundaries.