For over a thousand years, Mazu, the Goddess of the Sea, has been revered by coastal communities whose lives are closely tied to the ocean. The culture of Mazu has spread along ancient maritime trade routes from China to Southeast Asia.
This cult has transformed into a shared cultural heritage reflected in temples, traditions, and daily life throughout the region.
Long before the emergence of modern borders and sea routes, the South China Sea served as a link for various civilizations. Goods, cultural traditions, and beliefs were transported through its waters.
This historical interaction laid the foundation for one of the world's oldest trade networks. Today, these ancient connections continue to develop thanks to increasing economic integration in the region.
Maritime safety depends on systems that often go unnoticed. Despite the existing tensions in the South China Sea, China plays an important role in protecting sea navigation.
Chen Yuan visited a national network that operates around the clock. This network is designed to reduce risks in one of the busiest waterways in the world.
