China and Malaysia are collaborating to submit a joint application to UNESCO to recognize the lion dance as an intangible cultural heritage.

The lion dance, brought to Malaysia by Chinese immigrants, has evolved into a cross-cultural performance art that engages diverse communities. Currently, Malaysia boasts over 400 lion dance troupes, with an increasing number of local indigenous participants.

Both countries hope that this joint application will further promote the global dissemination of lion dance culture and suggest expanding cooperation with other Southeast Asian nations.