The study of China's culture in Southeast Asia is particularly significant as some observers misconceive Chinese culture in Southeast Asia as purely "Chinese", as if it had not been influenced by local conditions, including nationalism. In reality, Chinese culture in Southeast Asia is imbued with distinct differences that set itself apart from that in mainland China. Nevertheless, the question remains whether the rise of China has made the further transformation of local Chinese culture difficult, if not impossible. This book aims to examine the following: the current status of Chinese religions, language, literature, music and performing arts in Southeast Asia, their local characteristics, their position in both local Chinese and non-Chinese local society, and their problems and prospects. Seventeen scholars have been invited to present papers to deal with the above themes and with one exception, their revised papers are eventually included in this book. This is the most up-to-date publication that addresses the topic of Chinese culture and its transformation in Southeast Asia.
