KOTA KINABALU: China wants to strengthen its diplomatic and economic ties with Sabah and Malaysia, says its top official in the state.
China’s consul-general in Kota Kinabalu, Huang Shifang, said Sabah remains a top investment choice for China, with its natural beauty, abundant resources and cultural similarities.
She said the number of Chinese nationals coming to Sabah for leisure, work and investments have also increased over the years.
“We have also sent hundreds of locals from Sabah for training in China just this year alone,” she said in her speech at the republic’s National Day reception in conjunction with the 74th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China here on Thursday night.
Huang said the Sabah government and China are also holding an exhibition on Chinese science and technology at the Sabah state library.
The exhibition, which is open to the public and free of charge, showcases China’s advancements in science and technology.
“This exhibition will be on for six months at the state library before moving on to other parts of Sabah over the next three years,” she said.
Huang said industry players and students can take the opportunity to learn more about China’s industries, scientific advancements and explore potential tie-ups.
“Just last week, the Prime Minister was in China again and met with our leaders and high political trust was (built) during the visit.
“The best way to celebrate our history is to write a new chapter for our future.
“Let’s work closely to deepen relations between China and Malaysia, especially Sabah, and explore new opportunities for win-win collaborations,” she added.
Also present during the reception were Sabah’s head of state Tun Juhar Mahiruddin and his wife Toh Puan Norlidah RM Jasni, state leaders, local businessmen and other partners.
