Strong Msia - China ties to boost economic growth

thestar.com.my · Mar 1, 2026 · Collected from GDELT

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KUALA LUMPUR: China’s high-level reforms and growing openness are set to create new opportunities for Malaysia-China economic cooperation, says Chinese Embassy in Malaysia charge d’affaires Zheng Xuefang.He said the launch of China’s 15th Five-Year Plan this year marks a new chapter in bilateral collaboration. The Plan (2026-2030) focuses on high-quality growth, technological self-reliance, and economic security to navigate a “new phase of development” against geopolitical tensions.He also said China is easing restrictions in the services and financial sectors, allowing fully foreign-owned hospitals and expanding telecommunication pilot projects, signalling strong demand for professional partners in healthcare, education, finance and the digital economy.“This creates a high-value, high-certainty ‘golden track’ for entrepreneurs. On this track, Malaysia and China will complement each other in the digital economy, green development, new energy vehicles, artificial intelligence, biotechnology and semiconductors, building an interconnected industrial ecosystem.“We are not just trade partners, but a family that grows together. This collaboration will usher in the next ‘Golden 50 years’ of Malaysia-China economic ties,” he said during the Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) Chinese New Year celebration yesterday.Zheng also noted that 2026 marks Apec China Year, which, under the theme “Building an Asia-Pacific Community and Promoting Shared Prosperity”, will see China demonstrate the region’s commitment to openness and cooperation.He emphasised Malaysia’s role as a key Asean and Apec member in advancing regional integration and said the partnership should go beyond trade, extending to deep technology sharing.MCCC president Loo Kok Seong said Malaysia’s economic ties with China remain a key pillar of the nation’s growth, with significant potential for expansion in tourism, trade, investment and services.He said the focus should not be on short-term gains, but on building long-term, stable and sustainable cooperation.He highlighted Malaysia’s status as an open economy and its clear position in regional and global markets.“Our approach must balance welcoming foreign investment with supporting local businesses,” Loo said.Meanwhile, Transport Minister Anthony Loke said Malaysia-China economic cooperation continues to offer vast opportunities and called on the business community to work closely with the government to unlock new commercial prospects.He said Malaysia recorded a strong tourism performance last year, with 4.66 million visitors from China.“With Visit Malaysia 2026, arrivals from China will exceed five million this year,” he said.