NY Teochew Youth Debuts at the 12th International Teochew Youth Convention
President Queenie Ma led our delegation to Kuala Lumpur, joining more than 1,200 Teochew youth representatives from around the world — marking our formal arrival on the international stage.
From July 8–10, 2025, the 12th International Teochew Youth Convention was held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. President Queenie Ma led the New York Teochew Youth delegation to its first-ever appearance, joining more than 1,200 Teochew youth representatives from around the world. The delegation included Executive Vice Presidents Henry Siu and Bill Zhou, Vice President Helen Chen, and Secretary General Eva Chen.
Themed "Teochew Gathering in Malaysia," this year's convention saw International Teochew Youth Federation President Yibiao Li emphasize in his opening remarks: "International Teochew youth must be ambassadors and bridges of friendship, contributing to cultural and economic exchange between nations." He noted the convention was both a tribute to the "red-head boat" spirit and a new starting point for the mission of Teochew youth in a new era.
At the induction ceremony, President Queenie Ma solemnly pledged: "Gather the ambition of youth; nurture the seeds of heritage. Through cultural activities, we will sow the seeds of Teochew heritage in the hearts of young people around the world." During the convention, the New York delegation took an active part in the program, including:
— Attending the forum "Cross-Border Integration, Creating the Future Together"
— Visiting the "Enduring Roots, Commerce Across the World" cultural exhibition and trade fair
— Joining a Malaysian cultural gala evening
— Exchanging ideas in depth with Teochew youth representatives from many nations
At the closing ceremony, it was announced that the 13th International Teochew Youth Convention will be held in 2027 in China's Greater Bay Area, co-hosted by fourteen Teochew youth associations including the Shenzhen Teochew Youth Association. The New York association said it will actively prepare to take part in the next gathering.
This appearance marks the formal arrival of New York Teochew youth on the international stage. Delegation members said that exchange and learning with international Teochew youth deepened their understanding of Teochew culture, broadened their global perspective, and built valuable experience for advancing the New York Teochew cause in the years ahead.
