On May 27, Kuala Lumpur hosted the inaugural summit bringing together ASEAN, the Chinese mainland and member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). This historic trilateral gathering shines a spotlight on a shared maritime heritage that stretches back more than a thousand years.
At the heart of this story is the Batu Hitam shipwreck, a centuries-old vessel resting on the seabed like a time capsule. Its weathered timbers and recovered artifacts remind us of the merchants, ideas and goods that once flowed across distant oceans.
Today's leaders are charting a new course, inspired by the proven connections of the Maritime Silk Road. As they seek fresh avenues for cooperation, this summit sets the stage for partnerships that span trade, culture and innovation.
For young global citizensādigital nomads, tech enthusiasts and culture explorers alikeāthe message is clear: the past can guide our future. The echoes of Batu Hitam remind us that crossing oceans has long been a journey of discovery, unity and shared prosperity.
Reference(s):
Ancient shipwreck opens a new chapter in China-ASEAN-GCC relations
cgtn.com
