Chinese novelist Liu Zhenyun has been named the recipient of the 18th Hua Zong World Chinese Literature Award, a biennial honor that recognizes writers for their contribution to Chinese-language literature worldwide. The prize was presented at a ceremony in Kuala Lumpur on October 24, where Liu accepted the award before an audience of literary and media figures.
Who Selects the Award
The prize is organized by Malaysia's World Chinese Media Group and has been awarded since 1991. Its jury is made up of the editors-in-chief of seven Chinese-language publications within the group, including Malaysia's Sin Chew Daily, Nanyang Siang Pau, China Press and Guang Ming Daily, along with Hong Kong's Ming Pao, Ming Pao Monthly and Asia Weekly. Liu was chosen by majority vote, and the award selects a single recipient from Chinese-language writers around the world.
What the Jury Praised
In its statement, the jury pointed to what it described as Liu's "wry humor and distinctive narrative structures," which it said expose absurdities and truths hidden inside apparently ordinary stories. It also cited the "intellectual depth and artistic tension" of his writing and his role in bringing Chinese-language literature to international readers. Those remarks frame the award as a judgment on his formal approach as well as his reach.
Liu's View of Literary Invention
In his acceptance remarks, Liu argued that literature must be continually redefined. "With every work an author writes, they need to invent literature and give it a new definition," he said, adding that invention is limitless and that he intends to do his best on his next book. His comments suggest that, for him, each new project is a chance to test what a novel can be rather than a repetition of earlier successes.
International Reach and Upcoming Appearances
Liu's books have been translated into more than 30 languages, including English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Swedish and Czech. He is scheduled to appear in London on October 29, in conversation with Rebecca Liu, Culture Editor at The Guardian and a judge for the 2026 Booker Prize, to discuss his latest novel, The Last Laugh. He will also take part in the Sharjah International Book Fair on Friday, November 6, in conversation with Sudanese novelist Hammour Ziada.