How is Eid al-Fitr celebrated?

The Eid al-Fitr celebration will last for two to three days, where on the morning of the first day of Eid al-Fitr Muslims will perform the Eid prayer. At the same time, Muslims will congratulate each other on Eid al-Fitr with a formal handshake and hug to share happiness and forgive each other for past mistakes. It doesn't stop there, in the homes there will also be sweet dishes and gifts which are often given to children and those in need.

Muslims on the day of Fitri will forgive each other. These traditions will vary from country to country. In many countries with large Muslim populations, Eid al-Fitr will be a national holiday. Schools and offices will be closed so that on holidays Muslims can gather with family, relatives, friends and neighbors around where they live.

 

In the United States (US) and the UK, Muslims can request time off from school and work so they can travel or celebrate with family and friends. In countries such as Egypt and Pakistan, Muslims decorate their homes with lanterns, twinkling lights, or flowers. Special food will also be served to entertain friends, neighbors and extended family who will be invited to gather together.

In places like Jordan, with a predominantly Muslim population, several days before the Eid al-Fitr holiday arrives they will hunt for gifts in local malls and Ramadan markets. They will prepare to exchange gifts during Eid. In Turkey and in places that were once part of the Ottoman-Turkish empire such as Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania, Azerbaijan and the Caucasus, it is also known as, "Lesser Bayram" or "festival" in Turkish.

 

Eid al-Fitr marks the end of the fasting period of Ramadan and is often interpreted as a day of victory. Apart from reflection and joy, Eid al-Fitr is also a time for charity, known as Zakat al-Fitr. Eid al-Fitr is meant to be a time of joy and blessings for all Muslims and a time to share one's wealth with those who cannot afford to share in the happiness of the holiday.

 

Eid al-Fitr traditions in Indonesia

Each region certainly has its own unique traditions for celebrating Eid al-Fitr, as do Muslims in Indonesia. You must be very familiar with going home, takbiran, buying new clothes, and so on, right? These are only a small part of the traditions commonly practiced by Muslims in Indonesia. There are various distinctive traditions with unique stories behind them. 

 

The following are some Eid al-Fitr traditions in Indonesia that are still carried out today:

 

Homecoming

Returning home or going home is quite a phenomenal Eid tradition for Indonesians. This tradition is usually carried out a few days or even weeks before Eid al-Fitr arrives. This tradition is a moment for families who have migrated to various regions to stay in touch with each other.

Ketupat

The Eid al-Fitr celebration feels incomplete without the presence of ketupat and other side dishes. Ketupat is one of the typical Indonesian foods when Eid arrives. Usually ketupat is served with opor, rendang, curry, fried potato chili sauce, and other typical dishes. 

The night of the last day of Ramadhan

The next Eid tradition that is synonymous with Muslims in Indonesia is takbiran night. Usually takbiran is done in the evening before Eid al-Fitr, where people will go around chanting takbir while beating drums lively. However, generally the takbiran parade is different in each region, depending on the traditions that have been passed down from generation to generation in that area. 

Pilgrimage to the grave

The next tradition is the pilgrimage or 'nyekar' to the graves of family and ancestors. Usually this tradition is carried out the day before Eid al-Fitr or after the Eid prayer. It is not uncommon for people to bring flowers or incense when visiting graves.

Eid parcels or hampers

Parcels or hampers are also one of the Eid al-Fitr traditions which is quite popular in Indonesia. Usually people will send parcels or hampers to each other, whether for family, friends or work colleagues who are celebrating Eid al-Fitr. Currently, many Eid parcels are quite varied and creative, making it easier for you to choose a suitable parcel. 

THR

Another Eid tradition that is identical in Indonesia is the sticky greeting or distribution of THR. Usually this tradition is carried out by family members who are adults and have income, later they will distribute envelopes containing some money to their younger relatives. It's not surprising that THR has become a tradition that children look forward to when Eid al-Fitr arrives. 

Gathering to ask for forgiveness

Eid al-Fitr in Indonesia is also very synonymous with gatherings from one house to another. Usually friendly or halal bi halal activities are carried out on the first and second days of Eid al-Fitr. This is a moment to visit family, friends or neighbors to forgive each other and celebrate the holiday. 

These are some of the Eid traditions that are identical to those carried out by most Muslims in Indonesia.

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The Iconic Village in Indonesia

The Iconic Village in Indonesia

The existence of Penglipuran Village began a long time ago, it is said that during the Bangli Kingdom era. The ancestors of the residents of this village came from Bayung Gede Village and have remained until now, while the name "Penglipuran" itself comes from the word Pengeling Pura which means a holy place to remember the ancestors.

Penglipuran Traditional Village is a rural area that has a specific arrangement of traditional village structures, so that it is able to display a beautiful rural face. The physical arrangement of the village structure cannot be separated from the culture of the people which has been in effect for generations. So, Penglipuran Traditional Village is a cultural tourism attraction. The beauty of the Penglipuran Traditional Village can be felt from entering the pre-village area with green grass on the edge of the road and hedges along the road, adding coolness to the village procession area.

You may have heard the name Penglipuran Village often when talking about Bali. Yes, this village is one of the cleanest villages in the world so it is often used as a tourist destination by local and foreign travelers.

History of Penglipuran Tourism Village

Research shows that the Penglipuran Traditional Village has existed since the time of the Bangli Kingdom around 700 years ago. Quoting Feliksdinata Pangasih and Ayu Asvitasari in ojs.uajy.ac.id, the name Penglipuran comes from the words pengling and pura. Pengeling means reminder, starting from the root word eling or remember, while temple is a place or ancestral land.

The elders or penglingsir stated that the ancestors or predecessors of Penglipuran Village came from Bayung Gede Village, Kintamani. They often travel long distances and rest in an area called Kubu. The distance between the two locations is quite far by ancient standards, 25 kilometers. That's why Penglipuran Village was previously known as Kubu Bayung Village (Bayung people who live in the Kubu area).

There were more and more Bayung people living in the Kubu area and eventually they formed their own village free from their obligations as Bayung Gede residents. They built their own holy place called Pura Kahyangan Tiga. However, the village layout and the concept of their ancestral village still follow the concept in Bayung Gede Village.

Reported by the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy website, Penglipuran Tourism Village is located in Bangli District, Bangli Regency, Bali Province. The distance is around 60 kilometers from I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport and can be reached in 1 hour 30 minutes by car.

Attraction of Penglipuran Tourist Village

Penglipuran Village is known as the cleanest village in the world. Cleanliness is one of the main attractions of this tourist village. Let's review its various attractions below.

1. Cleanest Village

Based on detikNews records, Penglipuran Village received the nickname as the cleanest village in the world. This nickname is supported by various environmental and tourism awards received by this village. Starting from Kalpataru, the Indonesia Sustainable Tourism Award (ISTA), to being included in the Sustainable Destinations Top 100 according to the Green Destinations Foundation.

2. Tri Mandala Spatial Planning

As we know, villages in Bali are characterized by village layouts that uphold ancestral values. This was also found in Penglipuran Village. This village created a spatial layout that follows a concept called Tri Mandala, where the village is divided into three areas. Namely Main Mandala, Madya Mandala, and Nista Mandala.

Utama Mandala is a sacred area for the gods and worship. Then Madya Mandala was used as a residence for the residents. Meanwhile, Nista Mandala is a special burial area for residents.

3. Large Forest Area

Quoting the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy website, Penglipuran Village stands on 112 hectares of land. The area is divided into 50 hectares of agricultural land, 45 hectares of bamboo forest, 4 hectares of wood forest, 9 hectares of residential areas, and 4 hectares of holy places and public facilities. From above, it can be seen that the green area (forest and land) in this village is wider than the residential areas.

4. Cultural Customs

One of the religious rituals that often attracts the attention of tourists is Ngusaba. This ritual is carried out to welcome Nyepi Day. This village also regularly holds a cultural festival entitled Penglipuran Village Festival which is usually held at the end of the year. The activities vary, from traditional Balinese clothing parades, arts and culture parades, various competitions, to Barong Ngelawang.

5. Loloh Cemcem and Tipat Cantok

These two names are typical culinary delights from Penglipuran Village that you must try if you visit there. Loloh cemcem is a typical drink made from cemcem or Kloncing leaves. Then tipat cantok is a food consisting of ketupat and boiled vegetables, complete with savory and delicious peanut sauce.

Exciting Activities to Do in Penglipuran Tourism Village

As one of the leading tourist attractions in Bali, we can do many exciting activities at Penglipuran Tourist Village. The following is a review citing Indonesia Travel.

1. Visit a temple and learn about culture

As the name suggests, Penglipuran, tourists can find several temples in this village area. There are Pura Penataran, Pura Dalem, and Pura Puseh. We can visit the temple and learn about the culture and customs of Penglipuran Village. If the timing is right, we can also witness interesting traditional celebrations such as the Ngusaba and Galungan rituals.

2. Feel like a local resident

How to? By staying at someone's house. As a tourist village, several residents of Penglipuran Village provide their houses as accommodation for tourists. You can mingle with local residents and feel like a resident of Penglipuran Village for a few days. Exciting, right?

3. Taste typical culinary delights

No trip is complete without tasting typical culinary delights. As mentioned previously, there is tipat cantok food that you must try when visiting Penglipuran Village. There is also the loloh cemcem drink which is good for health because it is made from spices.

4. Make handicrafts from bamboo

Many works of art are available in Penglipuran Village that tourists can buy. But is just buying enough? You might try making one! Many local craftsmen can be found in this village and are willing to teach you how to make bamboo trinkets for souvenirs. Doesn't it feel proud to be able to bring home your own handmade souvenirs?

5. Explore the Bamboo Forest

Tired of making handicrafts from bamboo, you can relieve your tiredness by enjoying the atmosphere in the place where your handicrafts originate, namely the Penglipuran Village Bamboo Forest. There are many beautiful spots there that are suitable for taking photos.

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Mount Agung is a Balinese Symbol of Wisdom

Mount Agung is a Balinese Symbol of Wisdom

Tahbrontak - Mount Agung, a stratovolcano volcano, boasts a large summit and frequently erupts with smoke (asap) and steam (uap). Beyond its location and height, there are several notable facts about Mount Agung.

With a height of 3,142 meters, Mount Agung is the highest point in Bali. It is located in the Rendang district of the Karangasem province of Bali and is revered as a sacred site among Balinese residents. Specifically, Pura Besakih, considered the most important temple for Hindus in Bali, is situated on its slopes.

When the weather is clear from the summit of Mount Agung, one can see the peak of Mount Rinjani on the nearby island of Lombok. As the highest peak in Bali, Mount Agung has become one of the top attractions for tourists.

For those unable to climb Mount Agung, it is essential to understand the difficulty level of the desired climb. Novice hikers or those embarking on their first trip up Mount Agung are highly recommended to use a guided trail (pemandu) to avoid undesirable areas such as getting lost (tersesat) or injured (cedera).

In ancient Bali, Mount Agung was called Gunung Thorankil and was considered the palace of Mahadewa and Hyang Putra Jaya. In the Ramayana tale of Kisikindha Palwa, the mountain is referred to as Agung Udaya Palwata.

According to the Chronicle of Mount Agung, the mountain first erupted in 89 AD, with subsequent eruptions in 92 AD, 148 AD, and 189 AD. The Kanginan Karangasem area of Mount Agung reportedly erupted in 1543, 1615-1616, 1665, 1683-1684, and 1710-1711.

The First Recorded Eruption

Mount Agung is believed to have erupted between October 1710 and February 1711. This eruption is the first recorded in history, as documented in the Babad Gumi Lontar (version Pusdok Lontar and Geddon Kircha 719/3.Va), Babad Tusan, and Thatwa Batur Karawasan chronicles. During this period, hot water impacted villages such as Desa Bukit, Kyauchuk, Bantas, Kayu Aya, Kayu Petak, Tanjung, Rijasa, Mandala, Pagametan (Gerogak, Buleleng), and other areas like Tamblingan. Mount Agung also erupted in the early 18th century.

The Latest Eruption

The most recent eruption occurred in July 2018, emitting lava within a 2 km radius. This eruption displayed Strombolian activity, accompanied by loud explosive sounds (gedebuk).

Pura Besakih on the Slopes of Mount Agung
One of the most important temples in Bali, Pura Besakih, is located on the slopes of Mount Agung. When viewed from Pura Besakih, the mountain appears as a perfectly pointed cone. However, the peak is actually long and narrow, ending in a wide, circular crater.

Balinese Hindus believe that Mount Agung is the dwelling place of the gods, and their palace is located there. Consequently, the Balinese people consider this place sacred. Pura Besakih at the foot of Mount Agung was miraculously spared from the lava flows during the 1963 eruption. Locals believe that the 1963 eruption was a divine warning. According to historical records, Pura Besakih and Mount Agung form the foundation of Balinese society.

Mount Agung stands as a potent symbol of wisdom, spirituality, and natural power in Bali. Its historical eruptions, sacred significance, and challenging yet rewarding climbs continue to attract both devout worshippers and adventurous tourists, making it a central figure in Bali's cultural and natural landscape.

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The Problems of Waste and Homelessness in Paris

The Big Problems of Waste and Homelessness in Paris

Tahbrontak - Imagine a bright morning in Paris. The sun begins to rise, its rays beautifully reflecting off the Seine River. You decide to take a walk along the charming cobblestone streets, hoping to enjoy the city’s magic that never seems to fade. However, your steps are disrupted by an unexpected sight: piles of trash littering the streets and several people sleeping on the sidewalks.

In another part of the city, a different scene unfolds. Along the usually glamorous Champs-Élysées, there are heaps of garbage that haven't been collected yet. On the sidewalks, some people in shabby clothes try to keep warm in the chilly morning air. They are part of the growing homeless community in the city.

Paris is a city with a population of about 2 million people, but every year, more than 30 million tourists visit. Imagine the amount of trash generated by so many people! Trash cans on street corners are often full, and sometimes the garbage overflows before sanitation workers can collect it.

Behind the scenes, waste management in Paris is actually very complex. The city has a strict waste separation system where garbage must be sorted into organic waste, plastic, paper, and glass. However, not everyone follows these rules, especially tourists who stay for a short time and may not be familiar with the system. As a result, a lot of mixed and unsorted waste ends up piling up on the streets.

Additionally, sanitation workers sometimes go on strike to protest their working conditions. When this happens, trash accumulates more quickly than usual, making the typically beautiful city look a bit less clean.

Behind the grand buildings and elegant cafes, there is another side of Paris that not many people know about. The cost of living in Paris is very high. Renting a small apartment can be very expensive. For some people, especially those with low incomes or who have lost their jobs, living on the streets becomes the only option.

Not only local residents, but many of the homeless in Paris are also migrants and refugees who come with hopes of a better life. They come from various parts of the world, leaving behind homes plagued by conflict or economic hardship. However, upon arriving in Paris, they face harsh realities: finding work is not easy, and shelters are often full.

Additionally, some of the homeless struggle with mental health issues or addiction. Without adequate support and services, they find it difficult to break out of this vicious cycle. On cold nights, they seek refuge under bridges or in hidden corners of the city.

Under the Pont Neuf, one of the oldest bridges in Paris, some people build temporary shelters from cardboard and blankets. Many of them are migrants who came with hopes for a better life, but reality has turned out far from their dreams. The high cost of living and lack of job opportunities have trapped them on the streets.

Near Gare du Nord, the busiest train station in Paris, many homeless people gather. They come from various backgrounds: some are war veterans, migrants, or even former office workers burdened by debt. This station becomes a temporary refuge for those who have nowhere else to go.

The Paris city government, along with various non-governmental organizations, continues to seek solutions. They are building more shelters, providing mental health services, and introducing job training programs to help the homeless achieve a better life. On the other hand, they are also striving to improve the waste management system and educate residents and tourists about the importance of waste separation.

Although the challenges are significant, these efforts show that there is hope and commitment to make Paris a city that is not only beautiful but also clean and inclusive for everyone.

Large-scale campaigns to educate the public about the importance of waste separation and recycling are being intensified. In some areas, such as along the banks of the Seine, you can see different colored trash bins for each type of waste. These are small steps but very meaningful for the city's cleanliness.

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The Most Beautiful Village in Indonesia

Waerebo: The Most Beautiful Village in Indonesia

Tahbrontak - Indonesia, with its rich cultural heritage and abundant natural beauty, is home to many villages that offer unique charms. One of the most captivating is Waerebo, a traditional village located in Manggarai Regency, Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara. Waerebo is renowned for its unique traditional houses and its stunning natural beauty. This article will delve into the attractions and uniqueness of Waerebo.

Traditional Architecture of Mbaru Niang One of Waerebo's main attractions is its traditional houses known as "Mbaru Niang." These houses have a conical shape with tall, thatched roofs. Mbaru Niang consists of seven levels, each serving different purposes:

First floor: used as the main living area.

Second floor: for storing food.

Third to seventh floors: used for storing various necessities and keeping valuables away from rodents.

The structure and design of Mbaru Niang are not only aesthetically pleasing but also designed to withstand local climatic conditions, protecting against strong winds and heavy rains. This architecture reflects the harmonious philosophy of Waerebo's inhabitants in living with nature and their surroundings.

Remote Location and Natural Beauty

Waerebo is located at an altitude of about 1,200 meters above sea level, surrounded by mountains and dense tropical forests. To reach this village, visitors must undertake a hike of about 4-5 hours from the nearest village, Denge. This challenging hike offers spectacular natural scenery, from lush rainforests to breathtaking valley views.

The remote location gives an exclusive and impressive feel, as if detached from the hustle and bustle of modern life. The pristine environment and fresh air add to Waerebo's appeal as a calming tourist destination.

Rich Culture and Traditions

The inhabitants of Waerebo are indigenous people who still uphold their ancestral customs and traditions. Key aspects of Waerebo's culture include.

Traditional ceremonies: The people of Waerebo regularly hold various ceremonies related to the life cycle and nature, such as harvest thanksgiving and religious rituals.

Social system: Social life in Waerebo is governed by a strong traditional system, where each community member has clear roles and responsibilities, creating a harmonious and orderly society.

The natural scenery around Waerebo is very beautiful, especially during sunrise and sunset. The village offers views of green mountains and dense tropical forests. Some natural attractions in Waerebo include:

Mountain panoramas: Waerebo is surrounded by mountains that provide spectacular views, especially in the morning when a thin mist envelops the village.

Wildlife: The forests around Waerebo are still pristine, home to various types of flora and fauna. Visitors can hear the sounds of birds and other animals, adding to the sense of peace and naturalness.

Waerebo is one of the most beautiful and unique villages in Indonesia. The combination of traditional Mbaru Niang architecture, rich culture, and stunning natural beauty makes this village a must-visit destination. Visiting Wae Rebo provides a profound impression of the authentic life of traditional communities in harmony with nature. 

Waerebo is not just a tourist destination but also a reflection of Indonesia's rich and beautiful cultural heritage. Preserving Waerebo means protecting a valuable cultural legacy and ensuring that future generations can enjoy the same beauty.

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What is the secret of the Republic of China becoming a developed country?

What is the secret of China Republic becoming a developed country?

China has experienced rapid economic growth and development in recent decades, becoming a major global player and achieving the status of a developed nation. This begs the question: What is the secret behind China's remarkable progress? How has it managed to become a powerhouse with a highly skilled workforce? In this article, we will delve into the factors that have contributed to China's rapid advancement and explore the secrets of its highly competent human resources. Stay tuned to uncover the secrets behind China's success.

Why is China Republic a developed country?

There are several key factors that have contributed to China's rapid progress and development. One of the main reasons for China's fast-paced growth is its strong emphasis on infrastructure development. Over the years, China has invested heavily in building modern transportation networks, including high-speed railways, state-of-the-art airports, and extensive road networks. This has not only improved connectivity within the country but also facilitated efficient movement of goods and services, spurring economic growth.

Additionally, China's government policies and economic reforms have played a significant role in its rapid advancement. The country has implemented policies focused on attracting foreign investment, promoting technological innovation, and supporting entrepreneurship. These efforts have led to the establishment of numerous high-tech industries and have fostered a culture of innovation and creativity, contributing to the country's economic success.

Furthermore, China's large population has also been a contributing factor to its rapid progress. With a population of over 1.4 billion people, China has a vast labor force that has been instrumental in driving economic growth. The size of its population has allowed for a large pool of talent, enabling the country to develop highly skilled human resources.

In the next section, we will dive deeper into the secrets of China's highly competent workforce and unravel the measures taken by the Chinese government to cultivate and nurture skilled professionals. Stay tuned to learn more about the factors that have made China the global powerhouse it is today.

The key to China's success is building qualified human resources.

One of the key factors behind China's success in cultivating a highly competent workforce lies in its emphasis on education and skill development. The Chinese government has invested significantly in improving the quality of education, ensuring that its citizens have access to education from an early age. The country's education system is known to be rigorous, with a strong focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subjects.

Moreover, China has established numerous technical and vocational schools, which provide specialized training in fields such as manufacturing, engineering, and information technology. These schools play a crucial role in equipping students with the necessary skills to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving job market.

In addition, the Chinese government has implemented various programs and initiatives to nurture and retain talented individuals. Scholarships, grants, and financial incentives are provided to outstanding students, encouraging them to pursue higher education and research. Furthermore, the Chinese government actively supports collaboration between academia and industry, fostering an environment where knowledge and expertise can be effectively transferred.

By focusing on education, skills training, and talent retention, China has managed to build a workforce that is highly competent and adaptable. In the following section, we will explore another key aspect of China's success: its strong commitment to innovation and technological advancement.

Another factor played a role in China's progress

Apart from quality education and skills development, there are several other factors that have contributed to China's success in creating a competent and capable workforce. One major factor is China's commitment to innovation and technological progress.

China has adopted a strong strategy of encouraging innovation and technological development in various sectors. The Chinese government has provided substantial resources and support for research and development, as well as increasing collaboration between universities, research institutions and the industrial sector. Initiatives like these have encouraged the growth of new sectors that have great potential to increase China's competitiveness in the global market.

In addition, aggressive infrastructure development policies have also played an important role in China's progress. Strong and modern infrastructure, such as an extensive and efficient transportation network, has opened up better accessibility and connectivity between China's cities and regions. This provides new opportunities for economic growth and investment in various sectors.

In recent decades, China has succeeded in creating industry-changing innovations and bringing about significant technological advances. In the next section, we will explore more about the innovations and technologies that have driven China's progress into a highly competitive developed country.

Steps other countries can take to replicate China's progress

China's rapid development and highly skilled workforce have made it a global powerhouse. Many countries are eager to replicate China's success and are looking for ways to learn from its experiences. While every country is unique and will need to tailor their approach to their own circumstances, there are several steps that can be taken to emulate China's progress.

Firstly, investing in education and skill development is paramount. Countries should focus on improving the quality of their education system and providing training programs that are aligned with the needs of the job market. This will ensure that their workforce is equipped with the necessary skills to drive economic growth.

Secondly, fostering a culture of innovation and technological advancement is crucial. Governments can encourage research and development by providing funding, creating favorable policies, and establishing collaborations between universities, research institutions, and industries. By prioritizing innovation, countries can pave the way for groundbreaking discoveries and advancements in various sectors.

Additionally, developing strong infrastructure is essential. By investing in modern transport networks, reliable communication systems, and efficient logistics, countries can enhance connectivity and facilitate trade and commerce. This will attract investments and boost economic growth.

Lastly, countries should strive to create a business-friendly environment. This includes reducing bureaucracy, streamlining regulations, and providing incentives for entrepreneurship and foreign investments. By creating an environment that supports business growth, countries can attract international companies and stimulate economic development.

While replicating China's success may not be straightforward, these steps can serve as a starting point for other nations to lay the foundation for their own progress. By learning from China's achievements and tailoring these principles to their own contexts, countries can work towards becoming economic powerhouses in their own right.

China's rapid progress and highly skilled workforce can be attributed to several factors. The country's investment in education and skill development, coupled with fostering a culture of innovation and technological advancement, has paved the way for its success. Additionally, China's focus on developing strong infrastructure and creating a business-friendly environment has attracted investments and stimulated economic growth.

While other countries may not be able to replicate China's exact path to success, they can learn from its experiences. By investing in education, fostering innovation, developing infrastructure, and creating a business-friendly environment, countries can lay the foundation for their own progress and strive towards becoming economic powerhouses.

It is important to remember that each country is unique and will need to adapt these principles to their own contexts. Nonetheless, by learning from China's achievements and implementing suitable strategies, other nations can work towards achieving their own economic prosperity.

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