China’s modernization model, hailed for its inclusive approach to tackling inequality and reshaping global development, is rooted in ancient wisdom and prioritizes people-centered growth, said Koh King Kee, president of Malaysia's Centre for New Inclusive Asia, a non-governmental think tank.
Speaking at CGTN's "Power of Ideas" event, Koh King Kee highlighted that Chinese modernization transcends GDP metrics, focusing on people, fairness, sustainability, and cultural heritage.
"Chinese-style modernization is about lifting the wellbeing of the entire population. Central to this vision is the goal of common prosperity, with rural revitalization serving as a key strategy. Without addressing urban-rural inequality, common prosperity remains a distant dream. In this context, China's remarkable achievement of lifting 800 million people out of extreme poverty over the past four decades speaks volumes about its commitment. China's success in poverty reduction was in no small way attributed to the whole-of-nation approach and targeted poverty alleviation strategy," said Koh.
On March 29, Koh attended the 2025 International Forum on Poverty Governance and Global Development in the Lisu Autonomous Prefecture of Nujiang, Yunnan Province, where he witnessed the tangible impacts of these policies in one of China's most underprivileged areas.
"Recently I had the opportunity to attend the Nujiang International Forum on Poverty Governance and Global Development and witness first hand the transformative impact of this policy in one of China's most disadvantaged counties. These stories are living proof that the people as the foundation of the state is not just a slogan, but a living philosophy embodied in policy and practices. Today, these traditional values are reinterpreted through the lens of Chinese-style modernization. This modern vision not only prioritizes economic development, but also underscores social equity, ensuring that the benefits of the progress are shared by all," he said.
Koh highlighted the global importance of China's development philosophy, which is deeply influenced by ancient wisdom.
"The idea of harmony among all nations -- 'Xie He Wan Bang', which originated from the ancient classic 'Shangshu,' advocates that nation should coexist in harmony, embrace diversity and develop together. The China concept of a community with a shared future for mankind is a modern expression of this ancient wisdom. It calls for mutual respect, mutual learning and peaceful coexistence among countries, regardless of their size, proximity or power, and jointly building a community with lasting peace, universal security and common prosperity. The vision not only promotes global cooperation, but also offers a Chinese solution for building a fair and more just and more balanced international order," he said.
Expert praises China's inclusive approach to tackling inequality, reshaping global development
