Huis ethnic group in China moderate in outlook
By Channel NewsAsia's East Asia Bureau Chief Maria Siow | Posted: 10 November 2009 0013 hrs

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NINGXIA, China : The Hui minority is one of the largest ethnic groups in China.

Channel NewsAsia finds out what makes them stand out from other ethnic groups in the country.

In China's Ningxia autonomous region, nearly four in 10 inhabitants are Hui minorities. And virtually all Huis are Muslims.

One of them is 67-year-old Ma Xiuyun. Ma said: "We pray five times a day. I have not been to Mecca. I hope to go, but I don't have the means. It's too costly."

Descendents of Arab and Persian traders who came to China during the Yuan dynasty, there are now nearly 10 million Huis scattered cross the country.

Their lives are deeply influenced by Islam. And like other Muslims worldwide, they abstain from drinking, gambling and eating pork.

Famous Huis include Admiral Cheng Ho or Zheng He, and Ming dynasty official Hai Rui, known for his righteousness and fearlessness in standing up to the emperor.

The community's progress is attributed to their adoption of the Han language, and living with Han Chinese.

Lei Runze, a Hui minority scholar and former director of Hui Minority Museum, said: "The Islam that ethnic Huis believe has largely taken on Chinese characteristics. The teachings and doctrines of Islam have been combined with Confucianism. These include harmony between universe and man, love, righteousness and benevolence."

A major rebellion in the 19th century led to a short-lived independent Islamic state. And for a period, ties soured between Hui and the rulers.

Current policies now ensure ethnic equality, and favourable social and economic treatment for minorities. Benefits such as regional autonomy and fiscal benefits have allowed ethnic Huis to be more moderate in their outlook.

Lei Runze added: "Islam as practiced by the ethnic Huis has no connections with overseas Sunnis, Shiites or terrorist groups. As you can see, there are no problems within Hui-dominated areas and other ethnic groups. Most of the problems are internal, and nothing to do with other ethnic groups."

The Huis have been able to live with other ethnic groups. Their practice of moderate Islam has given Muslims a favourable image in China.

Even though religious freedom exists in China, it is expected to - like religions elsewhere - contribute to the country's overall development.

In the case of China, it is also expected to work hand in hand with the authorities to help achieve a more peaceful and harmonious society.

Analysts say Islam is undergoing a modest revival, given the setting up of more mosques and Islamic associations in the country. - CNA/de