In 2023, China and Malaysia marked a series of significant milestones, highlighting the enduring and dynamic relationship between the two nations. As Malaysia celebrates the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), one of its earliest partners, the monumental \"Two Countries Twin Parks\" stand as a testament to the BRI's lasting impact and the vibrant cooperation between China and Malaysia.
Beyond the physical footprints of these twin parks, the relationship has deepened through the China-Malaysia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, a pivotal development in bilateral diplomacy. This partnership was underscored by Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's high-profile visit to China in March 2023, during which a consensus was reached with Chinese President Xi Jinping to build a China-Malaysia community with a shared future. This agreement lays the foundation for advancing bilateral relations as both nations prepare to celebrate the golden jubilee of their ties next year.
The roots of this strong partnership can be traced back half a century, when Malaysia, under the leadership of the late Tun Abdul Razak Hussein, embraced non-aligned diplomacy during the Cold War. His visionary decision to engage with China, despite geopolitical tensions, set the stage for lasting cooperation. Malaysia played a crucial role in integrating China into ASEAN by inviting Chinese Foreign Minister Qian Qichen to the 24th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting in Kuala Lumpur in 1991, making China ASEAN's first dialogue partner.
In 2021, the relationship evolved further with the elevation to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. China's approach of amity, sincerity, symbiosis, and inclusiveness has offered a refreshing model for multilateral cooperation in Southeast Asia, fueling the success of the BRI in the region. As the BRI enters its second decade, there is a noticeable shift towards sustainable infrastructure and the digital economy, aligning seamlessly with Malaysia's strategic initiatives like Industry 4.0, the New Industrial Master Plan 2030, and the Digital Economy Blueprint. Emerging sectors such as Artificial Intelligence, Big Data analytics, and robotics are poised to drive future growth.
Trade between China and Malaysia remains robust, with China maintaining its position as Malaysia's top trading partner for 15 consecutive years. Notably, Malaysian exports to China have transitioned towards high-tech products, with the share of electrical machinery and equipment rising from 33.3% in 2011 to 42.6% in 2022. In the first quarter of 2024, bilateral trade grew by 3.3% year-on-year, reaching over RM112 billion (around $24 billion).
The positive outlook continues as anticipation builds for the conclusion of the ASEAN-China Free Trade Area 3.0. This milestone is expected to further enhance economic ties and open new avenues for collaboration, reinforcing the strong and mutually beneficial relationship between China and Malaysia.
Reference(s):
Relations between China and Malaysia go beyond the two countries
cgtn.com
