Datuk Ng Yih Pyng. —The Star filepic
PETALING JAYA: The golden anniversary of Malaysia-China diplomatic ties should open doors to explore more trade opportunities, especially in the field of new energy and green technologies, say business chambers.
“Chinese state-owned enterprises have made significant investments in Malaysia. We hope that this year, more Chinese private enterprises can come to Malaysia to collaborate with small and medium-sized enterprises,” said Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia (ACCCIM) deputy president Datuk Ng Yih Pyng.
This could then assist in the enhancement of Malaysia’s domestic technological capabilities, he said.
He said the economic and trade cooperation between the two countries can focus on developing new energy and green technologies to establish a long-term strategic partnership.
“As Malaysia is centrally located within South-East Asia, we are the perfect regional gateway for Chinese companies to venture into Asean and OIC (Organisation of Islamic Cooperation) countries,” he said when contacted.
As for people-to-people connectivity, he hoped the visa-free policy between the two countries could facilitate more frequent visits between the people of Malaysia and China.
“This could contribute to Malaysia’s tourism sector.”
China’s 15-day visa-free policy, which allows Malaysians to enter the country for business, tourism, family visit and transit, is being implemented until Nov 30.
On its part, Malaysia allows a 30-day visa-free entry for Chinese citizens. This is effective until Dec 31.
Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce vice president Datuk Joseph Lim said the Malaysian government should open its doors to welcome more Chinese companies to establish manufacturing facilities in Malaysia.
“In addition to the electrical and electronics (E&E) and palm oil trade, the two countries should enhance the trade of services, including business, communication and sales services,” he added.
He said that in recent years, Chinese SMEs had expanded their investments beyond China and had shown interest in South-East Asian countries, with Malaysia being the ideal investment destination.
“We hope that Malaysia can attract more Chinese companies to invest and promote industrial park development,” he said.
In May, the two countries will celebrate 50 years of the establishment of diplomatic relations.
ALSO READ: Pandas should stay on longer
Yesterday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said Malaysia is hoping to extend the stay here of two giant pandas, which were loaned to Malaysia for 10 years from 2014.
Federation of Chinese Associations Malaysia (Huazong) president Tan Sri Goh Tian Chuan said the Malaysian request, if granted by China, would be great news for the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations.
“The Chinese government has recognised that Zoo Negara is one of the best panda caretakers in the world,” he said.
He suggested a reduction to the entrance fee to view the pandas at the zoo in conjunction with the 50th-anniversary celebration.
“This would make it more affordable for our people to visit and gain a deeper understanding of the ‘ambassadors of friendship’ between Malaysia and China.”
Based on Zoo Negara’s website, tickets for adults are priced at RM45, children aged between three and 12 (RM18); senior citizens aged 60 and above (RM23).
Association of Belt and Road Malaysia vice-president Datuk Seri Chuah Poh Kiang said that panda diplomacy was crucial for people-to-people connectivity.
“Through pandas, the Malaysian people can get acquainted with the geographical environment and culture of China. And the Chinese people can visit Malaysia and learn about our diverse ethnic culture,” he said.
He also urged the Malaysian government to further streamline the visa application process for economic and trade activities and expedite the approval process to assist local companies in expanding overseas.
“We look forward to political stability because only with political stability can investors have confidence in coming to Malaysia to invest,” he added.
