the system of "kongsi" was utilized by cantonese throughout the diaspora to overcome economic difficulty, social ostracism, and oppression. in today's cantonese communities throughout the world, this approach has been adapted to the modern environment, including political and legal factors. the kongsi is similar to modern business partnerships, but also draws on a deeper spirit of cooperation and consideration of mutual welfare. it is believed by some that the development and thriving of cantonese communities worldwide are the direct result of the kongsi concept. a vast number of cantonese-run firms and businesses that were born as "kongsi" ended up as multinational conglomerates.