People from around the world visit Meizhou to celebrate the 1063rd anniversary of Mazu's birth on May 12, 2023. [Photo provided to China Daily]

The 10th Global Mazu Culture Forum is set to take place in Putian from Oct 31 to Nov 2. Over the past decade, the forum has grown from a regional event into a global platform for cultural exchange, showcasing the international influence of Mazu culture.

This year's forum aims to foster dialogue and mutual understanding among diverse civilizations. For the first time, it will feature 11 sub-venues across Asia, Europe, Oceania, South America, and Africa.

The event will attract representatives from international organizations, foreign dignitaries, overseas Chinese, and leading scholars from around the world, setting new records in both scale and scope.

Key events include the naming ceremony for the "Mazu" marine satellite and the appointment of ambassadors to promote Mazu culture. The forum will also release the "Annual Report on Global Mazu Culture Heritage and Promotion" and host eight specialized sub-forums, such as a global "Generation Z" dialogue with Mazu and the 11th International Mazu Culture Academic Symposium.

Originating from the Chinese mainland , the Mazu belief is deeply rooted in Taiwan, with over two-thirds of the population venerating Mazu. This year's forum seeks to strengthen cross-Strait integration through events such as the Fujian-Taiwan Mazu Culture Exchange Forum and the groundbreaking ceremony for a cross-Strait Mazu integration community, a first for Putian.

Coinciding with the forum, the 27th Meizhou Mazu Culture Tourism Festival will feature a colorful display of folk traditions. Highlights include traditional Meizhou women's hair bun performances, showcases of Putian's intangible cultural heritage, and a three-day grand Mazu pilgrimage procession on Meizhou Island, aiming to blend folklore and tourism.