China and Malaysia are commemorating a significant milestone as they celebrate the Golden Jubilee of their bilateral relations. This enduring partnership, rooted in a millennium-old friendship, has seen remarkable growth and collaboration, particularly through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
Chinese Premier Li Qiang is currently visiting Malaysia from June 18 to 20, underscoring the deep ties between the two nations. Last year marked the 10th anniversary of Malaysia joining the BRI, one of the earliest partnerships under this ambitious global development strategy. The \"Two Countries, Twin Parks\" projects in both nations are tangible symbols of the BRI's ongoing impact, serving as vibrant hubs of economic and infrastructural development.
The relationship reached a new pinnacle in March 2023 when Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim visited China. During this high-profile visit, both leaders agreed to build a China-Malaysia community with a shared future, laying down a blueprint for enhanced bilateral relations. This agreement comes as Malaysia ushers in the golden jubilee of its ties with China, reflecting the maturity and depth of their interconnected interests and shared aspirations amidst evolving global dynamics.
This alliance is deeply rooted in Malaysia's non-alignment diplomacy, a strategy that has enabled the country to maintain harmonious relations despite geopolitical tensions. Half a century ago, Malaysia's visionary leadership reached out to China during the Cold War, fostering a resilient partnership that has stood the test of time.
In 2021, the relationship was further elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, highlighting the strategic shift towards ASEAN-focused diplomacy. China's approach of amity, sincerity, mutual benefit, and inclusiveness has complemented Malaysia's own diplomatic efforts, resulting in substantial economic and infrastructural benefits.
As the BRI enters its second decade, the focus is shifting toward sustainable infrastructure and the digital economy. Malaysia is aligning its development goals with this shift, emphasizing 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 set to drive future growth.
Trade between China and Malaysia remains robust, with China being Malaysia's top trading partner for 15 consecutive years since 2009. Malaysian exports to China have seen significant changes, with the share of electrical machinery and equipment rising from 33.3% in 2011 to 42.6% in 2022. In 2023, China accounted for 17.1% of Malaysia's total trade, and in the first quarter of 2024, bilateral trade grew by 3.3% year-on-year to over RM112 billion.
The outlook remains positive as both nations anticipate the conclusion of the ASEAN-China Free Trade Area 3.0, which is expected to further bolster trade and economic cooperation. This golden jubilee not only celebrates past achievements but also sets the stage for a future of continued partnership and mutual growth.
Reference(s):
Relations between China and Malaysia go beyond two countries
cgtn.com
