China-Malaysia Ties Reach New Heights After Three Major Elevations, Says Outgoing Ambassador

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 29 – China-Malaysia bilateral relations have achieved three major strategic elevations over the past five years, culminating in a high-level strategic community with a shared future, according to outgoing Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia Ouyang Yujing.

Speaking at a reception celebrating the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China and marking the conclusion of his five-year tenure in Malaysia, Ouyang noted that bilateral ties progressed from a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership to a China-Malaysia community with a shared future, before attaining their current high-level status.

“These three monumental strides have brought China-Malaysia relations to a new level and opened up broader prospects for cooperation between our two countries,” Ouyang said.

He highlighted Chinese President Xi Jinping’s state visit to Malaysia in April as a key landmark that ushered in a new “Golden 50 Years” for bilateral relations. Ouyang added that the momentum has been reinforced by continuous high-level exchanges, including Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s recent visit to China and his bilateral meeting with Premier Li Qiang.

Representing the Malaysian government as the guest of honour was Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani. Other dignitaries in attendance included Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul, Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook, and Bernama Chief Executive Officer Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin.

Highlighting economic achievements, Ouyang noted that annual bilateral trade expanded from US$131.16 billion in 2020 to nearly US$200 billion in 2025. China has maintained its position as Malaysia’s largest trading partner for 17 consecutive years while remaining a major source of foreign direct investment.

On infrastructure and strategic projects, Ouyang shared key updates:

• East Coast Rail Link (ECRL): The flagship mega-project is now over 95 per cent complete and on track for completion by the end of this year.
• Industrial & Tech Initiatives: The “Two Countries, Twin Parks” framework continues to drive regional commerce, while Malaysia’s second 5G network expands with support from Chinese technological expertise.
• Emerging Sectors: Strategic collaboration is advancing in high-tech industries, including semiconductors, artificial intelligence (AI), data centres, and electric vehicles (EVs).

“China and Malaysia are far more than traditional trade partners. We are pioneering a vanguard model for regional cooperation in new quality productive forces,” Ouyang stated.

–NMT