Peoples and Traditions/ Contents

Chinese society

Lee Kam Hing

sp21_women

Chinese women, 1938.

Chinese communities have flourished in Malaysia since at least the 15th century, but it was not until the 19th century that large numbers migrated from mainland China. Local Chinese society has evolved from that predominantly comprising agricultural and mining labourers to one made up of more mixed, sophisticated and industrialized urban communities throughout the country. Since the late 20th century, the traditional values, everyday practices and communities of the Chinese have adapted in line with development of the country.

  • Information in the full article includes
  • The evolving Chinese society
  • Modern developments