The "C-Wave Global Music Co-creation Plan · Joy Resonance of Nanyang" concluded its finals in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, with Indonesian singer Kezia Kaithlyn winning the grand prize for her Indonesian-language adaptation of the Chinese song "Later I Met Him," titled "Aku Masih Memikirkanmu." The single's global streams have surpassed 2 billion, according to the announcement. Kaithlyn expressed hope that the adaptation will help Southeast Asian listeners understand the emotional core of Chinese-language music—a vivid embodiment of the global co-creation initiative.
Hosted by China's Guangdong Radio and Television, the project is open worldwide with no restrictions on nationality or age, featuring three tracks: original creation, adaptation, and AI co-creation. Within just 30 days of launch, it received over 5,000 submissions from around the world, with musicians from more than half of APEC member economies participating. The finals brought together 300 guests, with 68 local media outlets including Radio Televisyen Malaysia covering the event. A Malaysian member of parliament said music can dissolve differences and expressed hope the event becomes a regular fixture. A local tourism and culture official described the project as building a bridge for Asia-Pacific youth exchange under the framework of APEC's China year. Scholars from multiple countries also recognized Chinese-language music's value in connecting hearts across regions.
The program has generated an enthusiastic response. Experts on international affairs and China studies, the president of the UNESCO Culture Without Borders association, and Chinese-language schools worldwide have followed it closely. Overseas reach has totaled 300 million, with 137 domestic and international platforms simultaneously promoting it. The initiative helps ordinary amateurs reach the international stage, using music as a vehicle for civilizational dialogue and conveying an open and inclusive Chinese culture to the world. As reported by Media OutReach Newswire, the issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
The significance of this initiative lies in its demonstration of how cultural exchange can be fostered through accessible, participatory platforms. By attracting thousands of submissions globally and achieving massive streaming numbers, the program underscores the universal appeal of music and its potential to bridge linguistic and cultural divides. The involvement of APEC economies and the recognition from international scholars highlight the role of such initiatives in promoting mutual understanding and people-to-people connections. Moreover, the project's focus on amateur musicians provides a unique opportunity for individuals worldwide to engage with Chinese culture, potentially reshaping perceptions and fostering a more inclusive global cultural landscape.
