Stronger together: (From left) MCA secretary-general Datuk Chong Sin Woon, Dr Wee, Ahmad Zahid and MCA deputy president Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon arriving at the gala dinner celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Malaysia-China diplomatic relationship and culminating the Fifth World Association Presidents’ Conference. — YAP CHEE HONG/The Star
DPM: Together, M’sia and China can create prosperous and inclusive future
KUALA LUMPUR: There is vast potential for collaboration between Malaysia and China, particularly in key areas such as the halal food industry, technical and vocational education and training (TVET), and green energy, says Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
The Deputy Prime Minister said businessmen from both nations should explore these fields further, allowing Malaysia and China to grow and prosper together by drawing strength from their shared history and mutual respect.
“Our partnership is a model of cooperation.
“There is tremendous potential for partnership that can be shared in our future,” he said at the 5th World Association Presidents’ Conference grand gala dinner here on Monday.
Thanking all Chinese investors who have invested in Malaysia, Ahmad Zahid said investment figures “are not mere statistics, but reflects a deep endearing trust in Malaysia’s economy.”
“This year alone, I visited China twice. It shows my interest and my focus on the relationship between China and Malaysia,” he said.
Ahmad Zahid, who also chairs the Malaysian Halal Industry Development Council, said the halal technology sector is one of the most promising areas for collaboration.
“With a global market valued at US$2.29 trillion (RM10.22 trillion ) in 2022, the demand for halal products is rapidly increasing among Muslim and non-Muslim consumers alike.
“China, with its substantial Muslim population, represents a significant halal market.
Grand gathering: Over 700 business leaders attended the grand gala dinner celebrating 50 years of Malaysia-China relations. — CHAN TAK KONG/The Star
“Malaysian halal exports to China, which reached RM6.25bil as of mid-2024, is a testament to our robust trade relations,” he added.
Malaysia, Ahmad Zahid said, currently recognises 88 halal certification bodies worldwide, including six in China.
“We trust Chinese industry players,” he said, highlighting continued efforts to streamline standards and unlock the full potential of the halal economy globally.
Ahmad Zahid, who is National TVET Council chairman, also noted the immense benefits Malaysian students gain from world-class education in China, particularly in TVET fields such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and biotechnology.
Calling for more collaboration in the future, he said these initiatives not only equip the younger generation with skills to meet global challenges but also foster cultural and academic exchanges, reinforcing a rich history of shared understanding and mutual respect between the two nations.
Ahmad Zahid further said that Malaysia is a strategic and ideal gateway for Chinese enterprises eager to enter the dynamic South-East Asian market.
He praised initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) for enhancing connectivity and fostering growth in sectors like green energy, the digital economy, and sustainable development.
“Our shared vision for the future includes creating jobs, driving innovation and enhancing regional connectivity,” he said.
Ahmad Zahid also lauded MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong for planning and organising a successful conference.
“The possibilities before us are marvelous,” he said.
With opportunities in Asean, Greece and the Middle East, along with advancements in green technology and digital transformation, he said Malaysia and China will achieve inclusive, sustainable growth, benefitting both nations and the global community.
“Malaysia is prepared to continue collaborating with China and the global community to foster innovation, promote sustainable growth and address contemporary challenges.
“Together, we can create a prosperous, inclusive and resilient future,” he added.
