•  
  •  

Home > JOURNAL > Vol. 6 (2017) > Number 1&2

 

Abstract

The concept of the Twenty-first Century Maritime Silk Road (MSR) introduced by China covers an extensive and geographically as well as culturally diverse area. The rise of China since the 1980s has stimulated a worldwide trend in the learning of the Chinese language and the MSR is adding a new dimension to the diffusion of this language, Although the trends are clear and the possibilities for expansion immense, yet Chinese is far from being truly global in usage and there are challenges that may restrain the process of diffusion.
There are good reasons to learn Chinese and one of the most compelling is the growing economic clout of China and its pivotal role in regional affairs. The popularity of Chinese also hinges on the “soft power” of China and its potential to yield benefits comparable to those of English. Existing trends of expansion will strengthen with the creation of MSR and the continuation of China’s economic growth. Policy-wise, the setting up of Confucius Institutes and cultural exchanges must be complemented by the recognition of governments, parents, and students on the future role of Chinese. Issues related to teaching staff and teaching methods, course materials, and other difficulties should be addressed. This study examines the dissemination of Chinese in the South and Southeast Asian sectors of MSR and its development trends and future prospects.

Download

Share

COinS