Seminar Held: Understanding China Through Online Literature

The “Understanding China Through Online Literature Seminar” was held Sunday, bringing together a diverse group of participants to strengthen cultural ties and explore the changing landscape of literature. Organized by China Media Group (CMG), the Myanmar Writers Association, and the China Cultural Center in Yangon, the discussion was participated by prominent authors, the rector, and students from the National Management Degree College.

The seminar emphasized literature’s importance in preserving history, cultural values, and societal struggles while adapting to a digital age where reading habits have shifted from traditional print to online platforms.

U Ohn Maung (Myinmu Maung Naing Moe), Chairman of the Myanmar Writers Association, attended the event via video. He highlighted the remarkable progress of China’s online literature, noting it as an inspiring example for Myanmar’s literary community. He emphasized that fostering media and online exchanges could further enhance the growth of online literature in both China and Myanmar.

Attendees shared their experiences about online literature, discussing how to understand China through its online literature and how to present Myanmar to China using the same platform. Authors from the Myanmar Writers Association contributed their perspectives, expanding on these ideas.

Participants also discussed the growing popularity of digital formats like audiobooks, radio dramas, and online storytelling, which make literature more accessible but also raised concerns about the rise of low-quality, quantity-driven writing that impacts literary standards. During discussion, MIRadio’s producer also shared about the digitalized process of the radio program and also invited the authors and writers to contribute scripts for the radio drama segment with their permission.

The event focus on the need to balance innovation with quality, fostering appreciation for literature’s timeless significance in bridging cultural understanding between nations.

According to a 2023 report, the online literature development in China sees steady growth. The report shows there are 240.5 million online authors and 537 million readers actively creating and enjoying digital stories.