Stronger together: International delegates and representatives making the declaration in a simple ceremony during the Fifth World Association Presidents’ Conference (WAPC) at Wisma MCA. — YAP CHEE HONG/The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: China should be seen as a partner for cooperation and collaboration and not as a rival, says Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong.
The MCA president said that as Malaysia strengthens its ties with China, some might see its involvement as a potential challenge.
“Together, we can amplify our strengths – Malaysia’s strategic location, resources and policies combined with China’s technological expertise and investment capacity,” he said at the opening ceremony of the 5th World Association Presidents’ Conference (WAPC) here yesterday.
“By strengthening our ties with China, we can attract investments, integrate ourselves further into global supply chains, and create win-win outcomes for both nations.”
The WAPC, initiated in 2020 by China’s Hangzhou government, was created as a platform for global businesses to exchange ideas and foster cooperation during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The conference, held outside of China for the first time, marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China. It is co-hosted by the MCA, Malaysia-China Friendship Association, and the China Enterprises Chamber of Commerce in Malaysia.
Meanwhile, Dr Wee said the ongoing trade war between major economies, particularly the United States and China, presents a unique opportunity for Malaysia to position itself as a neutral and reliable trade partner.
He said as of 2023, China remains Malaysia’s largest trading partner for the 15th consecutive year with a trade volume of US$190.24bil (RM846bil), and this figure is expected to grow in the years to come.
“This reflects the strength of our collaboration, particularly under initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which has driven advancements in infrastructure, connectivity and sustainable development,” he added.
Dr Wee said the success of BRI 1.0 has laid the foundation for a new phase, Belt and Road 2.0, focusing on digital transformation, green energy and global supply chain resilience.
WAPC organising committee chairman Liu Jiang said Malaysia is a renowned central hub in South-East Asia and a crucial partner in the BRI, as well as a key member of Asean.
“Here, the advantages are evident, with abundant opportunities, a strategic geographical location, a convenient transportation network, robust development momentum, diverse regional cultures and a vibrant business environment,” he said.
Liu added that the conference serves as a frontier outpost for global development interests and a broad stage for industry transformation and new pathways.
It offers an excellent opportunity for participants to collaborate and unite, sharing insights and fostering cooperation, he said.
In his address, Zheng Xuefang, the Chargé d’Affaires at the Chinese Embassy in Malaysia, said China’s commitment to offering more development opportunities to Malaysia and the global community, aims for shared prosperity.
He highlighted China’s advocacy for the liberalisation and facilitation of trade and investment, alongside economic globalisation rooted in inclusivity and universal benefits.
“China is driving global development through innovation and reform. Innovation propels human progress; hence, we must seize the opportunities of the ongoing scientific and technological revolution, maintain momentum in digital and green development, and enhance cooperation in emerging fields such as the digital economy, green growth, artificial intelligence and new energy.
“We will broaden the range of industries encouraged for foreign investment, reduce restrictions on foreign investment, and remove all restrictions in the manufacturing sector,” Zheng added.
More than 700 delegates from 14 countries gathered at the event, with a shared goal of strengthening cooperation in key areas. The conference focused on four core areas – digital economy, healthcare, green energy and financial innovation – key sectors for global economic development and for deepening Malaysia-China cooperation.
Business matching sessions covered, among others, healthcare, the halal industry, food and agriculture, real estate, industrial energy and digital commerce.
