1. Sample Essay 4
Preserving national cultural identity is a responsibility that falls upon every citizen, with the younger generation, the 'spring of the nation', leading the charge in this mission.
Maintaining cultural identity involves safeguarding and promoting the cherished traditions of a nation. This is an expression of love for our homeland, national pride, and a clear sense of our country's independence and sovereignty.
In this era of technological advancement and the growing wave of globalization, the protection of national traditions requires even more attention. The youth, rich in energy, passion, and creativity, have countless ways to preserve and enhance the cultural identity of the nation.
Artistic expressions in music, painting, cinema, and more, crafted by young artists, seamlessly blend modernity with tradition. Public taste has increasingly embraced creations inspired by folk culture. Furthermore, the youth are leveraging their language skills to introduce the beauty of Vietnam’s people, landscapes, and cuisine to the international community. A notable example is Vàng Thị Dế, a Mông ethnic girl who spread the beauty of linen to both the local and global community. Linen, traditionally handwoven from flax, is a specialty of the Mông people in northern mountainous regions. Upon moving to the capital to attend university, Dế started exploring and independently created a website and social media page to promote linen. This precious fabric is not only featured in the traditional garments of the Mông people but has been transformed into everyday items like bags, scarves, and shirts. This harmonious blend of tradition and modernity has captivated consumers. As a result, Dế has helped numerous Mông families increase their income, while also bringing the beauty of Vietnam’s mountainous landscapes to a wider audience.
However, there remains a segment of the youth with a preference for foreign cultures and a disregard for traditional values. Some hold misguided views on cultural preservation, mistakenly equating it with clinging to outdated practices. These phenomena must be addressed. The term 'Cultural Identity' is the key to distinguishing one ethnic group from another and serves as a 'fingerprint' to identify us all. Therefore, let us use our talents, youth, and every opportunity to protect and promote our rich cultural heritage.

2. Sample Essay 5
'Even if it's not fragrant, it can still be like jasmine'
'Even if it's not elegant, it can still be like a person from Tràng An.'
(Folk poetry)
Indeed, this folk verse summarizes the refined qualities of the people from the thousand-year-old land of culture. Perhaps, it is these very qualities that leave a deep impression in the hearts of those born in this land. As a writer born in the capital, Nguyễn Khải captured the delicate and sensitive nature of Hà Nội's unique cultural traits in his short story 'A Person from Hà Nội,' excerpted from 'Hà Nội Through My Eyes.' The work not only highlights the appreciation of the cultural beauties of this land, but also expresses sorrow for the fading of cultural values. More importantly, it invites readers to reflect on the importance of preserving cultural identity in today’s world.
'A Person from Hà Nội' is undoubtedly one of Nguyễn Khải's successful short stories. The story revolves around the character of Mrs. Hiền and her relationship with the changing times. The finest qualities of the Tràng An people are embodied in this character. One notable feature of the story is how the author does not focus on grand events; instead, he uses his writing to explore the simple, everyday moments of life, yet still highlights the distinctive traits of the character. Mrs. Hiền's mindset is first revealed in her choice of a husband, an ordinary elementary school teacher who 'shocked all of Hà Nội.' Her decision to stop having children at the age of forty, contrary to the common belief 'the sky gives birth to elephants, the sky gives birth to grass,' shows her personal autonomy. As a woman, she confidently manages her family because she understands the crucial role of a wife and mother: 'A woman who is not the household manager makes that family go astray.' Furthermore, as a mother, she meticulously teaches her children about daily matters such as sitting at the table, holding the bowl, using chopsticks, and serving soup... When her two sons ask to go to war, the mother 'suffers but accepts it' because she does not want them to rely on the sacrifices of others. Through Mrs. Hiền, one can still feel a strong belief in the timeless beauty of Hà Nội: 'Every generation has its golden era. Hà Nội, however, is always beautiful, with a unique beauty for every age.' The character represents Hà Nội's sophisticated yet simple people, adaptable and graceful, even in the face of life's changes. She always dares to be herself, honest, sincere, self-respecting, and tactful. Her behavior, from her elegant attire to her meticulous care of her home, embodies the aristocratic, refined nature of Hà Nội's people. Even in the small details, such as the way she gently wipes a flower vase or her sensitive perception of the cold winter weather, we see the enduring cultural beauty of Hà Nội.
Nguyễn Khải's story, however, is not just about Hà Nội but sends a message to all Vietnamese about the importance of preserving national cultural identity. Culture can simply be described as the tangible and intangible values of society, and as long as people exist, culture will endure. Regardless of the era, culture plays a crucial role. Cultural identity encompasses the unique traits of each nation, contributing to the formation of an independent state. Perhaps this is why Nguyễn Trãi, in the opening of his 'Great Proclamation of the Pacification of the Wu,' emphasized the nation's cultural heritage right after the philosophy of humaneness:
'Humaneness lies in the peaceful settlement of the people'
'The military must first subdue the rebels'
'Like Đại Việt's water from the past'
'It has long been known for its cultural civilization.'
Each nation must have its own culture, just as every individual must have their own personality to define their own 'self' and distinguish them from others. A nation cannot exist sustainably if it lacks distinct characteristics. Culture is a fundamental factor in forming the tradition of a people. The intangible cultural values reflect the thoughts, feelings, and souls of the people. Vietnamese culture is simple yet profound, with its unique identity. The Vietnamese people are modest yet incredibly resilient, courageous, and steadfast. It is the cultural tradition that forms the roots of the nation, fostering a sense of pride, national self-respect, and a strong belief in the future. I think of the image of the banyan tree at Ngọc Sơn Temple that Nguyễn Khải once mentioned in 'A Person from Hà Nội.' The wind and storms can tilt its canopy or uproot it, but after the tumult, it will revive and sprout new leaves. Culture contributes to the 'golden age' of the past, and the past, in turn, shapes the best qualities of individuals. Culture guides people towards the values of truth, goodness, and beauty, making us better people. In addition, architectural works, scenic spots, and historical sites not only showcase the unique cultural features of Vietnam but also contribute significantly to promoting Vietnam’s image to the world. They also bring considerable income to the domestic and international tourism sectors, enhancing Vietnam's standing on the international stage. If we fail to preserve our cultural identity, we will lose our unique place in the world and blend into other cultures.
Today, society offers many opportunities for global interaction, creating more chances to promote Vietnamese culture. However, without awareness of preserving our cultural identity, we will gradually lose our distinctive cultural traits. The challenge of integrating without losing our identity is not impossible to overcome if every one of us is committed to preserving our national culture, especially the youth of today. Everyone should enrich their knowledge of their national culture so that our international friends can understand and appreciate it. After all, as someone once said: 'What we give away is what remains forever.' Preserving cultural traditions must start with the customs of each family, region, and locality. The unique cultural traits of more than fifty ethnic groups will collectively form a rich, diverse Vietnamese culture. Each person must consciously protect the tangible and intangible cultural values of their region and country. The government should implement measures to prevent actions that negatively affect culture while simultaneously supporting policies for restoring and conserving monuments and intangible cultural heritage. Preserving cultural values is not the responsibility of one individual but requires everyone's participation, not through slogans, but through concrete actions.
We cannot always preserve our cultural values because life is full of challenges (such as wars and natural disasters) that can cause significant damage to cultural monuments. However, we are continually striving to protect historical sites like the Old Quarter of Hà Nội or the One Pillar Pagoda... Vietnam has earned UNESCO recognition for some of its tangible and intangible cultural heritage, demonstrating our ongoing efforts to preserve our national culture. Despite the fast pace of modern life and the vast opportunities for international exchange, each of us still holds a Vietnamese soul and spirit. Preserving our cultural identity does not mean rejecting global influences. Every culture has its own strengths, and selective integration is an opportunity to enrich our cultural capital. Additionally, this exchange helps us identify our own weaknesses, learn from others, and enhance our cultural practices.
Preserving cultural identity is not only important for the community but also for each individual, as cultural values are expressed in daily life and thought.

3. Sample Reference No. 6
Preserving national cultural identity has always been a prominent value throughout Vietnam's history of nation-building and development. In the context of today's dynamic international integration, this issue has become even more critical. The awareness of safeguarding national cultural identity among the younger generation, a large and powerful force, is a topic of great concern in society.
More than anyone else, young people and teenagers are the most sensitive to cultural influences. Looking at today’s youth, especially members of the 8X and 9X generations, we can observe a growing awareness of national cultural identity. The current generation is more responsive, energetic, and modern, which is a positive sign, as it shows that Vietnamese youth are keeping pace with the demands of the times. However, a closer look reveals that beneath this energy and modernity, there are many aspects worth reflecting on.
Firstly, there are the obvious signs such as posture, speech, dress, and appearance. The prevailing trend among the youth is to imitate foreign films, actors, and famous singers. Colored hairstyles, casual or flashy clothing, exaggerated gestures, and the frequent mix of English and Vietnamese in conversations are all signs of a superficial cultural trend. The simple, elegant, and refined traditional style of the Vietnamese people has been largely overlooked by many young people. Chasing after these trends is also a sign of turning away from the nation’s cultural identity. On a deeper level, there are attitudes, thinking, and lifestyles. Many Vietnamese teenagers are not familiar with the history of their own nation, despite having been taught extensively about it. Yet, they can recite the biographies and private lives of celebrities with ease. They don’t know or care about traditional folk festivals, which are long-standing cultural activities, but are well-versed in online chatting, music, and café culture. On holidays and festivals, they may visit temples or churches but do not even know what’s on the ancestor altar. They view hard work and diligence as signs of being outdated... These are all expressions of a lack of awareness in preserving national cultural identity. When interacting with many young citizens, one notices that the marks of Vietnamese cultural identity are faint, while the influence of foreign and mixed cultures is more prominent. This is a concerning reality.
There are two main causes for this situation: objective and subjective factors. Objectively, it is the influence of the living environment and the context of the era. In an era of openness, global integration, and cross-cultural exchange, foreign cultures have flooded into Vietnam. Everywhere, one can easily encounter the images of new, modern, and attractive cultures. In such a shared space, traditional Vietnamese cultural traits seem to be at risk of becoming weaker.
Subjectively, today’s youth shows little interest in preserving cultural identity. They lack the awareness to safeguard it because, in reality, they do not fully understand what national cultural identity is, nor do they see the need to understand.
Young Vietnamese citizens, born and raised on Vietnamese soil, are not quite like true Vietnamese people. They have broad knowledge but lack the depth of a Vietnamese soul and character. National culture is the firm root of every person’s spirit. Without growing up and anchoring firmly in that root, a person becomes a lost individual in their own community. This is the first consequence for each individual, especially the younger generation. Now, imagine if today’s youth forgets their cultural identity; what will we have left in the near future? And what about the generations that follow? Cultural identity is the soul, the unique face of every nation; it is a critical element in affirming the status of that nation in the world. Losing one’s cultural identity means losing the past, losing history, and losing one’s roots, reducing us to a mere statistic among humanity. The younger generation holds the future of the country, and thus, enhancing the awareness of preserving cultural identity is absolutely essential.
So, what should be done to achieve this? First and foremost, it begins with the individual’s self-awareness. Every young person must truly understand the value of national culture—values that have been refined and inherited over centuries, ingrained in the hearts and minds of the Vietnamese people. No matter where one goes, no matter where one lives, this individual will always remain a citizen of Vietnam.
Families and society must also join hands to further enrich these cultural values amid the complex mixing of other cultural influences. At the same time, it is essential to realize that preserving culture does not mean clinging to what already exists. We need to inherit and develop it while selectively combining it with positive new cultural elements. This will create a Vietnamese culture that is both traditional and modern, diverse yet unified, capable of meeting the demands of ‘integration without assimilation’ in a new era. Achieving this is the responsibility and duty of every citizen, every young person today.
Preserving national cultural identity is the most meaningful contribution each young person can make to the country, and it must start with adjusting and shaping their own behaviors and awareness.

4. Reference Article 7
The world is increasingly moving towards the trend of integration, with cultural influence and exchange becoming stronger than ever. Today, we cannot ignore global culture, as failing to embrace it would only exacerbate backwardness and underdevelopment. Mobile phones, computers, televisions, and a myriad of electronic products, along with biotechnology, chemistry, and physics, are flooding the world, becoming indispensable in both the material and spiritual lives of the Vietnamese people. While these advancements bring numerous benefits, they also raise concerns about their negative impacts. It is crucial to reflect on how to preserve, protect, and promote the traditional cultural values that embody the unique identity of Vietnamese culture in contemporary life.
Traditional Vietnamese art and culture, which span various forms, are currently in decline. The reason these art forms have thrived for so long is that they were deeply rooted in the agricultural society of rice cultivation. Today, as industrialization rapidly transforms society, these traditional forms no longer capture the same fascination and appeal. Young people and even the middle class no longer have an interest in traditional performances like Tuong, Cheo, and Ca Tru. The government, including the Ministry of Culture, along with artists and researchers dedicated to traditional cultural forms, are making considerable efforts to preserve and develop them. However, the most important factor in ensuring their survival is the active involvement of various sectors and the people themselves.
The modern Ao Dai—a blend of Eastern and Western clothing cultures—represents a beautiful symbol of Vietnam's cultural identity and must be appreciated and preserved. In today's improved material conditions, many women no longer fit the traditional slim body type and thus do not enjoy wearing the Ao Dai, even during festivals or holidays. Meanwhile, the Ao Dai is highly regarded around the world. When Soviet cultural scholar Roman Karmen visited Trưng Vương High School in Hanoi, he was so amazed by the sight of female students in Ao Dai that he exclaimed, 'Indeed, they look like angels.'
Some of Vietnam's unique musical instruments, like the Tây Nguyên stone gongs, which once left a deep impression on both domestic and international audiences, are now largely forgotten, with only a few people knowing how to play them. Similarly, musical instruments from ethnic minorities in the mountainous regions are at risk of fading away due to the overwhelming presence of modern music in today's music scene. While urbanization is a sign of progress, it also contributes to the erosion of traditional cultural values. The once strong ties of village life and neighborly bonds have also weakened.
Preserving cultural identity does not mean rejecting foreign influences. 'Preserving cultural identity' is different from 'protecting cultural identity.' 'Preserving' means maintaining and ensuring it does not disappear, while 'protecting' means safeguarding it from external threats. Preservation does not imply stagnation but rather enhancing and enriching it while selectively incorporating new cultural elements. History shows that local cultural elements have coexisted with foreign influences, creating distinct cultural identities. The challenge lies in how to integrate these elements, and this requires a conscious, ongoing effort in the reception and application of culture. Many who care about preserving Vietnamese cultural identity are concerned about how foreign influences have compromised and obscured traditional cultural values. Recently, the outfits and performances of some singers and actors on stage have been criticized for being inappropriate, causing many audiences to turn away from traditional theater arts. While Vietnamese people embrace the refined beauty of ballet, rock music, theater, and cinema, they reject pornographic films and violent computer games.
Preservation must also involve making careful choices about which cultural elements are appropriate given specific contexts and circumstances. Festivals are a traditional aspect of Vietnamese culture, but today, there are too many festivals that are costly, exhausting, and at risk of becoming superstitious. Some festivals are even exploited for personal gain.
Maintaining cultural identity is both a long-term and urgent need. It is essential for individuals to recognize the importance of preserving cultural identity in a meaningful way: everything will pass, but the culture of a nation is what endures. Society and schools must strengthen education to ensure that citizens understand the values and expressions of traditional culture. There must be coordinated plans and solutions for preserving and promoting Vietnamese cultural identity. This is not the responsibility of one sector but of society as a whole. Cultural education must be systematic and well-structured. As Professor and Scientist Trần Ngọc Thêm wrote, 'A few dozen lessons on national culture in school are like raindrops, while the daily information from society is like floods: consider how many media outlets present films and articles about national culture, and how many discuss fashion, personal lives of celebrities, or sensational criminal cases? Media should increase their focus on national culture so that young people understand the origins, meanings, and scope of cultural practices and products. Understanding the significance of ancestor worship will prevent young people from carelessly rushing through rituals. By appreciating and learning to enjoy traditional Vietnamese theater, which the world admires, young people will no longer dismiss it. Understanding the reasons behind cultural phenomena will prevent blind imitation of foreign trends.'
In conclusion, each Vietnamese citizen should contribute in their own small way to preserving the cultural identity of the nation.

5. Reference Article No. 8
The process of international integration has significantly impacted students, changing their way of thinking and lifestyle in a more modern, proactive, and positive direction. Vietnamese students now have a broader understanding of the customs, culture, and people of other nations worldwide. They have the opportunity to explore the world, absorb and master advancements in modern science, technology, and new knowledge.
However, there are also some drawbacks that need to be addressed, such as a segment of students distancing themselves from national traditions, history, and culture. Many have developed excessive emotional expressions in entertainment, culture, and arts activities, neglecting or showing indifference to folk music, revolutionary songs, and traditional music. A concerning trend among both youth and students is the importation of negative foreign cultural influences that conflict with the customs and values of our nation. Numerous students are becoming addicted to violent video games and online activities, which severely impact their health and study time. Additionally, some are becoming obsessed with harmful, unhealthy publications, leading to immoral actions and legal violations.
Furthermore, the distorted behaviors of certain individuals, whom the youth idolize—such as singers and film stars—are also influencing the lifestyles of some students. Additionally, the language used in online chats or text messages has been altered by some students with confusing and even vulgar words, spreading these unacceptable terms across platforms, tarnishing the purity of the Vietnamese language.
The issues outlined above stem from both external and internal factors. First, it must be acknowledged that many students have not yet developed the discipline or awareness to enhance their skills, knowledge, and self-improvement.
The lack of confidence and awareness among students about different cultural and artistic forms also contributes to their difficulties in participating in preserving the nation's cultural identity. In everyday life, some cultural and artistic activities no longer appeal to the younger generation, causing them to seek out foreign art forms. However, these forms have not been properly filtered before being widely disseminated. The lack of effective management by relevant authorities further exacerbates this problem.
Facing the challenges and difficulties that our country is currently confronting, students must ask themselves: As the future intellectuals of the nation, what have we done, are doing, and will do to contribute to the country's development and the preservation and promotion of its cultural identity?
To answer this question, every student must strive to improve themselves, continuously enhance their professional and technical knowledge, and dedicate themselves to the common good of society and their personal growth. More importantly, they must develop cultural integrity, being prepared to fight against unhealthy cultural activities and products.
In fulfilling its responsibility, the Vietnam Student Association must continue to promote the education of thought, ethics, and proper conduct among students, considering this an urgent and important task to be regularly executed. It should strengthen the organization of contests related to the nation's glorious history and cultural traditions. Moreover, it should take proactive, creative, and flexible approaches in guiding students to embrace the positive and progressive aspects of modern culture while simultaneously fostering a strong sense of national pride and the preservation of our cultural identity. The association must firmly combat indifference, fostering solidarity and mutual assistance among youth.

6. Reference Article No. 9
In the fast-paced rhythm of modern life, everything is changing rapidly, propelling humanity to greater heights. Yet, one thing we must undoubtedly preserve, protect, and enhance is our national cultural identity.
The traditional culture of a nation encompasses the material and spiritual values passed down from generation to generation. Its significance to any nation is profound. It crystallizes the legacies of past generations, contributing to the unique cultural identity of the nation, an identity we cannot afford to lose. Culture is a broad concept, and here, we do not intend to delve deeply into its essence. However, preserving the traditional cultural heritage is the responsibility of both the nation and each of its citizens.
A country that seeks to build and develop in all areas, especially economically and socially, cannot ignore the preservation and promotion of its traditional culture. It serves as the foundation that sustains lasting values, a moral compass guiding citizens in the development of virtuous qualities and resilience in the face of contemporary demands. Maintaining traditional culture also allows the country to choose new elements for integration. We cannot allow foreign cultural influences to flood into Vietnam without first passing through the filter of tradition to ensure they align and adapt for development. The same principle applies to economic investment. While Vietnam aspires to wealth, pursuing foreign wealth without respecting Vietnamese culture cannot be a sustainable path.
However, traditional culture also has its limitations, such as the complexity in customs, overlapping relationships, and its inadequacy in addressing larger issues. Therefore, while we must preserve it, we must also adapt it to remain relevant. The greatest concern today lies in the excessive liberalism of the youth—the very group responsible for preserving this culture—coupled with the sometimes weak mechanisms for managing traditional culture. These challenges pose significant difficulties in safeguarding cultural traditions and, consequently, in protecting the nation.
Nevertheless, we trust that the core aspects of Vietnamese identity, the beauty within Vietnamese culture, are ingrained in the consciousness of every citizen. Young people, in addition to their education, must be self-aware of this duty. Even as our country grows like Japan or South Korea, we must ensure that, just like them, we retain the beauty of our traditional culture.

7. Reference Article No. 10
In today's era of industrialization and modernization, students have more opportunities than ever to acquire knowledge, expand their horizons, and integrate with the world. However, to truly develop ourselves, both in character and spirit, we must actively seek to understand, protect, and preserve the cultural heritage of our nation.
A prevailing reality that we all notice is that society is evolving towards industrialization and modernization, with people becoming more open and integrated with the cultures of different countries. However, we sometimes forget, or neglect, the beauty and traditions of the culture we were born and raised in. Many of our cultural identities have faded, and the younger generation seems increasingly uninterested in learning about or preserving these traditions.
This indifference has caused many valuable traditions to slowly disappear, with numerous cultural festivals and folk competitions losing the attention they once had, often becoming superficial. Today's youth are not as invested in these traditions; instead, they are drawn to more outward, modern influences. This shift has led to the gradual loss of the core values that define our nation.
To address this, each individual, especially students, must take the initiative to learn about the cultural identities of our nation, preserve, and promote them to the global community. Additionally, schools should organize more activities to raise awareness and impart knowledge about our cultural heritage to students. We must prioritize the responsibility of safeguarding our cultural identity and continuously expand our understanding of the nation's values. Only in this way can we successfully preserve and maintain our national cultural identity.
Preserving our cultural heritage is a collective responsibility of all Vietnamese people, and we must actively protect and nurture these traditions so they continue to grow and thrive.

8. Reference Article No. 1
Each country, each region has its own unique cultural identity and beauty. We must understand the importance of preserving our cultural heritage and promoting these distinctive aspects to the world.
National cultural identity refers to the traditions passed down through generations, becoming customs and practices that define our nation. It encompasses the uniqueness of each region and contributes to the richness of collective life. Cultural identity is what makes each nation distinct and adds diversity and color to the human experience. The preservation of cultural heritage is of immense importance to the lives of individuals and the overall development of the nation.
Cultural identity, or more specifically, regional culture, is where people exchange cultural values, celebrate the beauty of their homeland, and build connections. It also serves as a distinguishing feature of a nation, ensuring that its uniqueness is not confused with any other country. Unfortunately, many aspects of Vietnamese cultural identity are being lost or corrupted, transforming into various other forms. Therefore, each individual, especially students, must make an effort to understand, protect, and share these cultural values with the global community. Schools should organize more events to promote cultural awareness and provide students with the knowledge needed to appreciate our cultural heritage.
Students must prioritize the responsibility of preserving our cultural identity and actively enhance their understanding of the nation’s beautiful values.

9. Reference Article No. 2
To remain strong and continue to develop throughout the history of building and defending a nation, alongside protecting territorial sovereignty, every country must prioritize preserving its cultural identity. The immense significance of cultural identity for the vitality and resilience of any nation raises the question of the role of the youth – the future leaders of the country – in safeguarding this cultural heritage.
As we know, cultural identity is the core essence that distinguishes each nation, developed and nurtured alongside the nation's efforts in both its formation and defense. It includes both material values and intangible cultural assets such as customs and traditions. For the Vietnamese people, these values have endured through time, from the rice cultivation civilization and Đông Sơn bronze drums to the deep patriotism running like a red thread throughout the history, and the humanitarian spirit of "mutual support" and traditional values like "remembering the source of the water you drink," and "eternal gratitude."
Cultural identity holds profound meaning for any nation. It is, first and foremost, the root, the soul that affirms the existence of each nation. This was emphasized by Nguyễn Trãi, the author of the famous historic work "Bình Ngô đại cáo" during the medieval period, where he outlined the five elements that define a nation, two of which were the nation's cultural heritage and traditions, illustrating the deep awareness of cultural identity's importance. Moreover, cultural identity nurtures the awareness of independence and the duty to protect the homeland for every individual. In a world of diverse nations, cultural identity is one of the key features that make a nation distinct and irreplaceable.
In the current era of integration into the global market economy, the significance of preserving cultural identity has only become more pronounced, closely tied to the responsibilities of the younger generation. As the future leaders of the nation, Vietnamese youth are already making efforts to preserve cultural heritage through various positive actions. Despite foreign cultural influences, many young people are rediscovering and embracing traditional values like folk games and cultural practices such as ca trù and nhã nhạc cung đình, and are proudly promoting Vietnam's image globally. An example of this is when Miss H'Hen Niê dazzled at an international beauty pageant with a national costume inspired by bánh mì, symbolizing Vietnam's agricultural achievements.
However, even today, we still encounter young people who stray from their cultural roots. They are indifferent to the traditional values, both material and spiritual, and often idolize foreign cultures to an excessive degree. For example, some youth freely incorporate foreign words into their Vietnamese speech, resulting in incomprehensible expressions that tarnish the purity of the Vietnamese language. These actions inadvertently hinder the preservation and enhancement of the nation's cultural identity.
The younger generation must recognize the importance of cultural identity to enhance the preservation of these precious values. They should cultivate a lifestyle and positive actions aligned with the nation's beautiful traditions, preserving and promoting the unique cultural values of the Vietnamese people. We must also denounce and oppose behaviors that diminish cultural identity, strongly fighting against the spread of unhealthy cultural practices in society.
Thus, the youth hold a crucial role in preserving and promoting the national cultural identity. As students born and raised within this cultural heritage, we must strive to excel in our studies and work to become good citizens, contributing to building and protecting our homeland.

10. Reference Article No. 3
To bring Vietnam closer to President Hồ Chí Minh's dream of “stepping onto the stage of glory to stand side by side with the powerful nations of the world,” in addition to economic development, we must ensure the preservation of our cultural identity.
The term "cultural identity" may sound abstract, but in simple terms, it represents the core values, both material and spiritual, that define a nation. Culture manifests in tangible products such as traditional foods, costumes, landmarks, and historical sites. It also exists in intangible forms, including language, customs, and the enduring values of patriotism, respect for learning, loyalty, and others. With thousands of years of history, the Vietnamese people have a rich and distinct cultural identity.
Cultural identity plays a crucial role for any nation. It is the very essence of a nation. A country can only maintain its sovereignty if it preserves its cultural identity. This is why, during the four thousand years of Chinese domination, foreign rulers consistently sought to assimilate the people of Đại Việt, aiming to make Vietnam their possession. The French also referred to our people as "An Nam mít" and saw themselves as the "great mother" coming to enlighten us. Moreover, culture brings tremendous benefits and directly influences the nation's economic growth. The beautiful landmarks and historical sites attract international tourists, and traditional Vietnamese dishes, known worldwide for their distinctive flavors, have become a source of national pride and economic value. Ultimately, in a world of hundreds of nations, cultural identity is what makes us unique and irreplaceable.
Given its importance, what measures can be taken to preserve cultural identity? First and foremost, it requires the awareness of each individual. From the elderly to the youth, everyone must recognize the crucial role of cultural identity and actively work to preserve it through the years. For example, many young people today are embracing traditional art forms like ca trù, cải lương, and chèo. Additionally, the government, both at the central and local levels, must invest in restoring and preserving both material and intangible cultural assets. Sometimes, preserving cultural identity can also come from simple actions, such as keeping the purity of the Vietnamese language or wearing the áo dài during national holidays. These actions may seem small, but they are incredibly meaningful.
In conclusion, preserving national cultural identity is of utmost importance for any nation. Today's youth, who are open to new ideas, must consciously protect and cherish the beautiful traditions of our country.
