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KUCHING (Jan 16) – The year 2024 has seen unprecedented growth in China-Malaysia relations, highlighted by the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties and the celebration of the China-Malaysia Year of Friendship, according to Xing Weiping, the Consul-General of the People’s Republic of China in Kuching.
Speaking at the Spring Festival Reception held by the Consulate-General in Kuching, Xing highlighted the frequent meetings between the heads of state and government from both nations, which helped steer the relationship forward. These meetings resulted in strategic consensus, strengthening the China-Malaysia community and elevating cooperation to new heights.
Bilateral trade between China and Malaysia soared past US$190 billion (RM896.29 billion) from January to November 2024, positioning China as Malaysia’s largest trading partner for the 16th year in a row. By year-end, the trade figure is expected to exceed US$200 billion (RM944 billion).
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“Both nations have made significant strides in areas such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), digital economy, green development, artificial intelligence, and big data,” said Xing. He also emphasized the ease of travel with the implementation of a mutual visa exemption policy, which has greatly enhanced people-to-people exchanges. In 2024, 3 million Chinese tourists visited Malaysia, marking a 155% year-on-year increase.
Focusing on Sarawak, Xing noted the expanded sister-city relationships, with 36 cities, provinces, and counties in China now connected with Sarawak. This includes cooperation with provinces like Fujian, Yunnan, and Shandong. Over 30 Chinese delegations visited Sarawak, while more than 10 Sarawak leaders traveled to China in 2024. The first Malaysia (Sarawak)-China Cooperation Forum in Kuching last month further deepened these exchanges, laying the foundation for future collaborations.
Xing also pointed to increased economic cooperation, particularly in green energy, equipment manufacturing, and digital economy. The China Energy Investment Group has expressed interest in Sarawak’s floating solar power project, and strategic partnerships have been formed between InvestSarawak and key Chinese organizations.
In the field of agriculture, Xing highlighted progress in rice cultivation and bamboo planting, as well as the potential role of China’s domestically produced C909 aircraft in Sarawak’s aviation plans.
Looking forward to 2025, Xing expressed optimism about China-Malaysia relations, especially as Malaysia assumes the ASEAN chairmanship and the role of coordinator for China-ASEAN relations. The Consulate-General in Kuching remains committed to fostering closer ties with Sarawak and ensuring ongoing cooperation in various sectors.