KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s partnership with China, which is built on mutual respect and collaboration, has been stronger than ever as both nations mark the golden jubilee of the establishment of diplomatic ties, says MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong (pic).

“Our partnership is built on a foundation of mutual respect and understanding, with both nations committed to enhancing economic cooperation and cultural exchanges.

“We have seen remarkable progress in our bilateral trade, which has been expanding year after year, bringing prosperity to our people.

“By combining our strengths and leveraging our unique perspectives, we can create a more secure and prosperous region for all,” he said.

Moving forward, both countries need to work together to address challenges like climate change, maritime security and transnational crime, Dr Wee said in his closing address at the Malaysia-China Commemorative Forum here yesterday.

The Commemorative Forum was held to mark the 50 years of diplomatic relationship and to foster deeper economic collaboration.

It was jointly organised by the KSI Strategic Institute for Asia Pacific, Malaysia-China Business Council, China Daily Asia Pacific, Star Media Group Bhd and Sin Chew Media Corporation Bhd.

Dr Wee said that with China being Malaysia’s largest trading partner since 2009, it makes Malaysia-China’s economic ties robust.

He added that the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) presented a unique opportunity to elevate this partnership to even greater heights.

“This includes fostering innovation and knowledge transfer, building infrastructure that connects our people and economies, and creating a level playing field for businesses on both sides.”

Citing examples of the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) and Cainiao Aeropolis Electronic World Trade Platform (eWTP) Hub, he said these projects not only created jobs and boosted economic growth but also paved the way for innovation and development.

“Our collaboration in the BRI is a testament to our shared vision for regional connectivity and economic integration,” he said.

Dr Wee noted that more Chinese nationals are looking to Malaysia for education and business prospects.

“We used to have about 9,000 foreign students from China but two years later now, the number stands at over 40,000.

“Also, there were only around 100 Chinese restaurants operated by Chinese nationals in Malaysia in 2004, which increased to about 1,000 a decade later in 2014,” he said.

“Today, after two decades, we have more than 10,000 such outlets in Malaysia.”

This, he said, showed how the bilateral ties and people-to-people friendships had flourished.

Tourists from both nations have been visiting each other, showing deep interest and fostering cultural exchanges, he said.

“The visa-free travel that took effect from Dec 1, 2023 saw Malaysians as the largest group of foreigners visiting China, with 1,113 arrivals on the first day.

“Malaysia’s reciprocal 30-day visa-free policy for Chinese and Indian citizens was also effective during this period.

“Tourist arrivals from China to Malaysia in 2023 reached 1,474,114, making them one of the top five arrivals,” he said.

By combining Malaysian and China’s strengths and leveraging on their unique perspectives, Dr Wee said both nations can create a more secure and prosperous region for all.

“As we look to the future, our focus remains on strengthening this partnership even further.

“From robust economic ties to enriching cultural exchanges, we are committed to working together for a brighter future.”

He said the future of the Malaysia-China partnership is bright.

“By working together, hand in hand, we can harness the power of economic collaboration, cultural exchange, and regional cooperation to build a brighter future for our people,” he said.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/05/08/robust-economic-ties-growing-stronger-says-wee