Universal Value

Confucianism has global value. "Some basic tenets, such as benevolence and righteousness, remain universal, while some ideas have been discarded," said Huang.

Oei Kiem Ma, a Chinese Indonesian who majors in Chinese philosophy at Shandong University, is a follower of Confucianism.

People with a sense of egoism and superiority would disturb others if there was no code of conduct for mankind, said Oei.

She cited the Confucius principle that "Do not do to others what you would not want others to do to you."

"Such a doctrine will never be outdated," she said. "Confucianism is about life and requires practice."

In Indonesia, Confucianism has been recognized and is followed by many people, she added.

"Confucian doctrines concern human nature, and human nature is the same the world over. Confucianism has a universal appeal. It is for us to make use of it," said Alan Chan, 85, a Singaporean businessman who now devotes himself to promoting Confucianism.

"Many things in Confucianism are outdated or inappropriate, but it still has a lot of wisdom," said Chan, a descendant of Chinese philosopher Zengzi, a disciple of Confucius.

Having published his own English translation of part of the Analects of Confucius, Chan funded the construction of a Confucius Neo-Institute in Qufu, in 2013.

The Analects reflect Confucius's political views, moral principles and educational ideas. "How happy we are to have friends from afar" and "Do not do to others what you would not want others to do to you" are among the classic sayings.

The World Confucian Conference or the Nishan Forum on World Civilizations is held in Qufu each year, attracting hundreds of scholars around the world. The town also hosts the International Confucius Cultural Festival each year.