High turnout: Part of the 700-odd participants who attended the WAPC listening to Dr Wee give his welcoming speech during the opening ceremony of the conference that was held for the first time in Malaysia.
KUALA LUMPUR: The national energy sector is set for a transformative leap by adopting best practices inspired by China’s successes, says Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.
The Deputy Prime Minister said there is immense potential for local energy players to explore new technological advancements and innovative solutions from China.
Fadillah, who is also Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister, said China offers significant opportunities for the local energy sector to leverage on its technological advancements to drive sustainable growth.“I have been impressed by China’s efforts in advancing its energy transition within the framework of its new economic development. According to the International Energy Agency, China has achieved significant milestones, with renewable energy capacity expanding at an approximate annual rate of 12% and the number of electric vehicles on the road growing by about 20% yearly.
“These efforts offer Malaysia a chance to learn and adopt best practices for a fair and equitable energy transition, aligning with the National Energy Transition Roadmap,” he said in his speech at the 5th World Association Presidents’ Conference (WAPC) here.
Fadillah said a recent visit to China by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim identified clean and renewable energy as key areas of cooperation in 14 signed bilateral MOUs.
“I see vast openings and opportunities for our energy players to explore new technological advancement and innovative solutions,” he added.
Fadillah said tourism also played a crucial role in strengthening Malaysia-China relations.
“The visa exemption policy has significantly boosted travel, with Chinese tourists making up a substantial portion of Malaysia’s tourism sector.
“So far, over 262,000 Chinese visitors have visited Sabah and contributed to Malaysia’s tourism revenue, predicted to reach RM30bil.
“Beyond economic benefits, these visits foster cultural exchanges, enriching mutual understanding and strengthening the bonds of friendship between the two countries,” he added.
Fadillah cited educational collaboration as another cornerstone of Malaysia’s partnership with China.
“Under Malaysia’s Madani framework, hundreds of students have been sent to China to pursue education, particularly in technical and vocational education and training (TVET).
“Recently, 200 Malaysian students gained expertise in cutting- edge fields such as AI and cybersecurity. Additionally, Xiamen University’s first overseas campus in Malaysia enhances access to quality education and deepens cultural and academic ties,” he said.
Looking ahead, Fadillah said bilateral ties were set to evolve further with the focus on emerging sectors such as green technology, digital innovation and sustainable development.
“Trade liberalisation and economic globalisation will be key drivers in this evolution.
“China’s increasing technological adoption, particularly in areas like AI, blockchain and the Internet of Things, sets a precedent that Malaysia can follow to enhance its technological landscape.
“This partnership will also promote trade liberalisation, allowing both nations to benefit from shared innovations and economic opportunities,” he said, adding that these efforts aligned closely with WAPC’s theme of ‘Promoting Trade Liberalisation, Advancing Economic Globalisation’.
Fadillah also expressed gratitude to MCA, the Malaysia-China Friendship Association and China Enterprises Chamber of Commerce in Malaysia for their efforts in organising the conference.
He concluded by urging the international delegates to explore Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.
“I hope the conference will lead to impactful outcomes, reaffirming a shared commitment to sustainability, inclusivity and mutual progress,” he added.
