PETALING JAYA: The high-level engagement between Malaysia and China will see key developments in 2025, say stakeholders.
With the visa-free access between both countries now firmly in place, they said cooperation in the digital economy, artificial intelligence (AI), green energy, electric vehicles, advanced manufacturing and smart farming could be further advanced.
Associated Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia (ACCCIM) president Datuk Ng Yih Pyng said China’s leadership in green technology, digital economy and telecommunications aligned well with Malaysia’s aim for an AI-driven green economy.
Citing initiatives like the Malaysia-China Youth TVET Training Programme, he said: “China is willing to support this. The potential for technology and knowledge transfer to enhance the competitiveness of Malaysian industries, particularly small and medium enterprises (SMEs), is significant.”Ng said ACCCIM sees big opportunities in enhanced trade facilitation, reciprocal investments and boosting Malaysian exports, such as high-quality agricultural and halal products, to China.
“Promoting Malaysia’s participation in trade platforms like the China International Import Expo will amplify our presence there,” he said when contacted.
He said cultural and educational exchanges are another area ripe for development, with educational collaborations like Universiti Malaya’s Global Education Centre in China.
“With already 40,000 Chinese university students in Malaysia, these efforts will not only strengthen cultural bonds but also enhance our mutual understanding,” Ng added.
He said ACCCIM would hold the Asean Forum next year in support of the government’s efforts to fortify bilateral ties with China.
Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) president Loo Kok Seong reported a 30% rise in visits and exchanges between Chinese and Malaysian enterprises this year compared to last year.
He said with Malaysia set to assume the role of Asean chair in 2025 and with 2026 slated as Visit Malaysia Year, the government must promote high-end sectors.
“Our tourism industry is closely linked with SMEs, which also require national support and proper strategies. We hope our SMEs can work in alliance with China’s SMEs,” he added.
He said the Chinese agriculture sector has technology and capital that could benefit Malaysia and that Chinese investments in Malaysian automobile technology had indirectly led to Chinese SMEs investing in Malaysia, such as in the production of automotive parts.
