Xi's Malaysia visit sets new milestone in bilateral ties, regional cooperation

THRIVING COOPERATION, FLOURISHING TIES

China-Malaysia ties run deep. From the voyages of renowned Chinese navigator Zheng He in the 15th century to the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1974, and to the building of a community with a shared future today, the two countries have long enjoyed cultural affinity and strategic trust.

During Xi's 2013 visit, the two countries upgraded ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership. A decade later, the relationship was elevated again to a China-Malaysia community with a shared future.

In a signed article published in Malaysian media ahead of his arrival, Xi said the decision on building the China-Malaysia community with a shared future marked "a new milestone in the bilateral relations."

"Our bilateral cooperation potential is being progressively realized in the digital economy, green development, industrial investment and transport infrastructure construction," he wrote.

As a vital node along the ancient Maritime Silk Road, Malaysia is among the first to participate in Belt and Road cooperation. Thanks to joint efforts and Xi's steadfast push, bilateral collaboration within the framework has achieved many results.

In 2024, China-Malaysia trade reached $212 billion, nearly 1,000 times the level at the inception of diplomatic relations. China has been Malaysia's largest trading partner for 16 consecutive years.

On top of that, bilateral initiatives like the "Two Countries, Twin Parks" program, which pairs industrial zones in Qinzhou and Kuantan, have emerged as a model for regional collaboration. This partnership has spurred the expansion of port collaboration and infrastructure connection.

A notable example is the East Coast Rail Link, a 665 km railway whose construction is in full swing. The railway, once completed, will bridge Malaysia's less-developed east coast with its economic powerhouse on the west coast, enhancing connectivity and fostering balanced growth.

Samirul Ariff Othman, an economist at Malaysia's Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, said, "the flourishing economic ties between Malaysia and China demonstrate the resilience and mutual benefits of our bilateral relationship."

"The continued expansion of investments in high-value sectors such as technology, green energy and manufacturing will further deepen our cooperation," said Othman.