ONE thousand guests were invited to celebrate Chinese New Year in an event hosted by the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China.
China ambassador Ouyang Yujing said in his speech that the event was his first physical festive celebration despite this being his third year in Malaysia.
“I can feel the lively holiday atmosphere in Malaysia.
“What impresses me most is the ‘lao sheng’ or prosperity toss which also signifies abundance and vigour in the next year,” he said in his speech at a hotel in Kuala Lumpur.
Ouyang added that China and Malaysia have been enjoying strong economic ties.
“According to China’s official statistics, bilateral trade volume between our two countries last year reached a historic US$203.6bil (RM881.28bil), increasing by 15.3% year-on-year.
“This is the first time the volume has surpassed US$200bil.
Ouyang (centre), Zambry (left) and Wee wishing everyone a prosperous lunar new year.
“This year also marks the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the China and Malaysia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” he said.
Ouyang also noted numerous significant events in the Year of the Tiger for China.
“We successfully convened the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China where Chinese President Xi Jinping was re-elected.
“A grand plan for the overall development of China in the next five years and beyond has also been drawn up,” he said
Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir said the long-standing and close bilateral relations have strengthened over the years.
“It demonstrates the deep historical, political and cultural ties that span centuries.
“Since the formal establishment of diplomatic relations on May 31, 1974, ties between Kuala Lumpur and Beijing have grown from strength to strength underpinned by strong government-to-government commitment and active private sector engagements.
Performances on the night kept guests entertained at the event hosted by the Chinese embassy.
“Both countries agreed to elevate ties to Strategic Cooperation in 2004 and later to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
“In this regard, we look forward to working closely with China in strengthening and consolidating our bilateral relations,” he said.
Guests enjoyed dinner while being entertained by Malaysian singer Shila Amzah, dances as well as a face-changing performance.
A line-up of Cabinet ministers such as Local Government Development Minister Nga Kor Ming, Youth, Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh as well as Deputy Communications and Digital Minister Teo Nie Ching attended.
Also present were Dewan Rakyat Speaker Datuk Johari Abdul, MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong and Gerakan president Datuk Dr Dominic Lau Hoe Chai.
