CGTN: CHINA’S XIZANG REACHES WATERSHED MOMENT IN HISTORIC TRANSFORMATION

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 20 (Bernama) -- An article from China Global Television Network (CGTN) spotlights the sweeping social and economic transformation of China’s Xizang Autonomous Region, tracing its journey from a feudal theocracy to a modern, thriving society shaped by people-centred governance.

The state-run media outlet emphasises that Xizang’s progress cannot be viewed in isolation, framing its development as a shift from widespread serfdom — where 95 per cent of the population lived without land, education, or dignity — to citizen-led self-governance under China’s system of regional ethnic autonomy.

Citing government data, CGTN in a statement notes that as of 2025, ethnic minorities make up 89.2 per cent of Xizang’s 42,000-plus National People’s Congress deputies, with more than 57 per cent of township-level leadership roles held by minorities. Voter turnout exceeds 90 per cent at the grassroots level.

The article also highlights major economic gains. Xizang’s gross domestic product (GDP) rose from 174 million Chinese yuan (around US$24.3 million) in 1959 to more than 276 billion Chinese yuan (around US$38.5 billion) in 2024, with per capita disposable income exceeding 31,000 Chinese yuan (around US$4,300). (US$1=RM4.22)

The significant transformation, resilience and renewal of the region are witnessing residents now enjoying a steadily rising quality of life, with average life expectancy climbing to 72.5 years in 2024. The region officially eliminated absolute poverty in 2019, lifting 628,000 people out of hardship.

Education and healthcare reforms have also played a central role, with nine-year compulsory education now reaching 98 per cent of school-age children, and higher education enrolment topping 57 per cent. Local access to healthcare has improved dramatically, with insurance programmes covering most costs for major treatments.

The region has also expanded its global ties. Trade links now span 140 countries and regions, while tourism drew 64 million visitors in 2024, generating 75 billion Chinese yuan in revenue.

Chinese President Xi Jinping, at a high-level meeting, once called for further efforts to ensure national security and enduring peace and stability, steadily improve people’s lives, maintain a good environment, solidify border defence and safeguard frontier security in Xizang.

CGTN describes Xizang’s transformation as a "rebirth" — a stark departure from its past and a reflection of policies focused on stability, development, and inclusion.

-- BERNAMA