To develop the Department of Chinese Language and Literature at New Era University College into a forward-looking institution of higher learning with an international outlook.
Rooted locally, oriented globally.
Established in 1998, the Department of Chinese Language and Literature is one of the earliest departments at New Era University College. Upholding the philosophy of “Diversity and openness in education; nurturing talent for society and contributing back to society,” the department is dedicated to the promotion and advancement of Chinese language, literature, and culture.
The department offers:
It also provides Chinese language courses for students from other faculties across the university.
The academic staff specialize in areas including classical philology, classical literature, modern and contemporary literature, local Sinology, and Malaysian Chinese literature, with particular strengths in Southeast Asian Chinese studies and Malaysian Chinese cultural research.
The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Chinese Language & Literature places literature at its core, while integrating history, philosophy, linguistics, and local and regional studies. The programme aims to cultivate well-rounded graduates with intellectual depth, cultural awareness, and broad perspectives.
To meet contemporary needs, the department offers flexible elective modules that allow students to transform their strong foundation in Chinese studies into professional competencies.
The four elective modules are as follows:
A. Chinese Classics, History, Philosophy and Sinology
The Chinese Classics, History, Philosophy and Sinology module deepens students’ engagement with classical texts and intellectual traditions. It includes courses such as Confucianism and Economic Ethics and Shiji (Records of the Grand Historian), providing a solid foundation for those who aspire to pursue academic research, education, or advanced cultural studies.
B. Creative Writing, Editing, and Publishing
The Creative Writing, Editing and Publishing module strengthens writing proficiency and introduces students to publishing practices. Through courses such as Creative Writing, Chinese Prose Writing, Chinese Publishing Industry, and Business Communication and Applied Writing, students are prepared for careers in publishing, media, and content development.
C. Enterprise, Community and Chinese Society Studies
The Enterprise, Community and Chinese Society Studies module focuses on Chinese social and cultural contexts as well as organizational practices. Courses such as Chinese Folklore, Chinese Enterprise Culture, and Cultural Heritage Management and Museology equip students for careers in community development, cultural management, and corporate communication.
D. Applied Chinese and Chinese Language Education
The Applied Chinese and Chinese Language Education module integrates contemporary educational trends with digital technologies. It offers courses such as AI in Chinese Language Education and Chinese Language Teaching and Classroom Assessment, providing professional training for those interested in Chinese language education, language teaching, and curriculum design.
Students may select modules based on their interests and career plans, and are also encouraged to take courses across different modules to cultivate both humanistic literacy and professional skills.
The department emphasizes both academic training and practical experience. Through internship programmes and industry collaborations, students gain real-world exposure in various sectors.
Graduates pursue diverse career paths, including:
Students may also pursue minor certifications to enhance their professional competitiveness.
The Department of Chinese Language and Literature is a bridge—connecting classical and modern, the world and human experience, knowledge and practice, the present and the future.
(R/0232/8/0006) (08/04/2026 - 07/04/2033)
(MQA/ FA9371)
(R/0232/7/0014) (18/11/2025 - 17/11/2032)
(MQA/ FA9230)
(R2/0232/6/0007) (22/03/2026 - 21/03/2031)
(MQA/ FA4646)
(R3/0231/3/0013) (09/10/2025 - 08/10/2030)
(A10807)
Programme: Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Chinese Language & Literature
Serve: Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman
Appointment Duration: 2025-2027
Programme: Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Chinese Language & Literature
Serve: University of Malaya
Appointment Duration: 2025-2027
Programme: Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Chinese Language & Literature
Serve: Sin Chew Media Corporation Berhad (Deputy Exercutive Editor-In Chief)
Appointment Duration: 2025-2027
Programme: Foundation in Chinese Communication
Serve: University Putra Malaysia
Appointment Duration: 2025-2027
Programme: Foundation in Chinese Communication
Serve: University of Malaya
Appointment Duration: 2025-2027
Programme: MA & PhD in Chinese Studies
Serve: National University of Singapore
Appointment Duration: 2025-2027
Programme: MA & PhD in Chinese Studies
Serve: Universiti Putra Malaysia
Appointment Duration: 2025-2027
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Introduction
The Chinese Narrative is a Chinese-language magazine founded in 2006 by the Department of Chinese Language and Literature at New Era University College.
In its early years, the magazine focused on two main humanistic missions: promoting classical Chinese scholarship and engaging with local public readership.
With the passage of time, including changes in personnel and the evolving cultural landscape, The Chinese Narrative underwent a major transformation in 2014. Its content was reoriented to balance accessibility and academic depth, reflecting both the youthful vitality of campus life and the rich humanistic traditions of Chinese studies.
Staying true to its original vision, The Chinese Narrative continues to uphold its mission as:
A magazine created by individuals who observe different landscapes and reflect from diverse perspectives, yet are united by a shared commitment as members of the Chinese language community.
The academic training I received from the Department of Chinese Language and Literature at New Era is unparalleled. More importantly, I found a level of humanistic care that one could hardly expect while being alone in a foreign land. My days at New Era were happy and fulfilling, shaping three unforgettable years of my life. If someone were to ask, "What made you fall in love with Malaysia?" I would answer in two words: "New Era!" Choosing New Era is a decision you will never regret.
Throughout my three years at university, we were like joyful scavengers, tirelessly gathering the fragments of time left behind. History asks: Can you trace the buried roots of time through my fractured body? Philosophy counters: Why must one labor so arduously simply to exist in this world? When you see Tao Yuanming overjoyed by a single blade of grass, or Sima Qian enduring humiliation to complete his historical records, you may begin to wonder: how might learning lead us back to the very essence of life? Of all the questions we carry into this world, can five thousand years of Chinese civilization truly offer answers? No one can decide that for you. You must seek the sparks born of your own encounters. The answer may be singular——but that singularity can only arise from the echoes left behind by your dialogue with the world. Those who love the Chinese language often carry within them a deep longing to understand its very being. Perhaps it is because of this discipline that I have found such joy. It is a gift that the Chinese offer for a lifetime.
For me, the greatest lesson from the Department of Chinese Language and Literature is learning to be truly honest with oneself. Life and study here are so incredibly rich, with so many paths and grand goals, that self-sincerity becomes the ultimate priority. It means wholeheartedly acknowledging one’s flaws, ignorance, and mistakes, while also honoring one's efforts, feelings, and desires. Our professors come from diverse academic backgrounds and impart various theories and philosophies. However, we do not exist to become clones of any of them. There is never just one path to learning, nor is there a single destination. Be sincere, treat everyone—including yourself—with equal grace, and forge a path that is uniquely your own. Be unique, my friend.
Life is full of choices, and I am grateful that I firmly chose the Department of Chinese Language and Literature . It did not define who I should become, but instead gifted me with the unique perspective of a "Chinese person," acting as a guiding light for my journey. Particularly regarding life goals, we are no longer confined to the pursuit of material gain and fame; instead, we gain an aspiration for a higher spiritual realm. I hope every fellow student of Chinese finds their own "perspective," moving through the years with composure and grace.
In the classrooms of the Department of Chinese Language and Literature, there are no predetermined answers. Many seemingly obvious conclusions vary in interpretation depending on one’s perspective; it is rarely about absolute right or wrong. Our lecturers often present controversial examples, inviting us to explore the logic and contradictions within philosophical discourse or to trace the delicate emotions and thoughts in literary writing. While the learning process is challenging, this is a safe place to stumble and grow, building the courage needed to face life's uncertainties. As "New Era of Department of Chinese Language and Literature" graduates, we have learned to think critically and discern for ourselves. Equipped with the ability to seek our own answers, we can face any future with composure, grace, and confidence.
The campus life here made me felt that I’m in a big family. The lecturers and course-mates are very nice. Through the journey of studying here, I’m able to learn the skill of critical thinking, and solving problems.
The lecturers’ professionalism and the library’s collection of books has been the primal factors for student’s academic achievements. Although the activities and homework are heavy, it also helped us in developing soft skills.
Classy teaching force and diverse teaching approach are the characteristics of Chinese language study in New Era UC. We’re required to express Chinese culture as creative as possible, this includes poem writing, song composition and bookmark making, which was fun and educating. I’m glad that the experience of studying here helped me to continue study overseas.
Due to the love for Chinese language, I decided to continue study at New Era. The teachers are very helpful academically when you are in need. Emphasis on group discussion and writing had made me more prepared when I continue study at Beijing.
The teachers are my idol, because they have immense patience when it comes to helping the students academically. The meticulous approach while writing thesis had helped me a lot when I continued my study at Beijing.
Studying Chinese is a beautiful misunderstanding as my primary and secondary education was English orientated. From the first semester where those words are alien culture to me until the day I passed my exam on “International Primary and Secondary School Chinese Language Teaching Exam”, I wish to thank allthe teacher for showing unyielding faith in me. I’m currently working towards becoming a translator.
The programme had changed my perception on Chinese language significantly. The emphasize on both curriculum and activities has made me felt well prepared to study at overseas.
I’m the winner of 18th New Era University College Holistic Education Award. I’m also the class representative during my study over here. Thanks to the variety events that we need to organize, the Chinese language study is not as dull as others might think. We’ve learned, grow, and become stronger to face future endeavours.
The mentors have a strong emphasis on logical thinking skills. They always require students to prepare lessons before hand. They ask sharp questions and presenter are required to prepare questions for the class as well. Through the training here I’m able to hold myself up in future endeavors.
I have no clues or what so ever when it comes to academic writing. However, through shear persistent and determination form the teachers, my thesis has won merit awards at the academic forum organized by New Era. By equipping the knowledge taught by the teachers, I believe I can go far in my academic career path.
I was the class representative. The diversity of teaching approach used by the teachers has made me grow as a whole. Thanks to the recommendation by the teachers, I’m able to continue my study abroad!
The lecturers here have exceptional patient in guidance and teaching. Students can learn the heart and soul of Chinese literature effectively. The wisdom from our ancestors able to help my career path, which I’m very grateful for that. I encourage more students joining our family, because learning and gaining growth here is an amazing experience.
I met a group of close comrades and great mentors while I study here. We’ve foster our friendship through school events and our relationships grow from there. Perhaps the purpose of life is keep finding it until you found it, and through the campus life here, I’ve built a solid foundation in facing future challenges.
Back then in 2001, the hardware of the institute was incomplete and basic, but the teaching force are quite elite and have vast experience. They’ve nurtured me into a better, stronger person. This is a place to train our soft skills that can be useful in the future.
After graduated from New Era University College, I successfully enrolled into Tsinghua University and received full scholarship at Nanyang Technological University. This is due in no small part to my experience here. The teaching material and school activities has laid foundation to my success and who said studying Chinese language can’t get better job?
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