Kuala Lumpur: The close relationship between Malaysia and China has made this year’s Chinese New Year celebrations even grander with the stunning display featuring over 1,000 drones by a team from China at the KLCC Twin Towers recently. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi highlighted the drone display as evidence of the deep ties forged between the two countries 50 years ago, which extend beyond government-to-government (G2G) relations to include connections between the peoples of both nations.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid emphasized the importance of these ties not only at the governmental level but also among businesses and individuals. He noted that this relationship has been strengthened through visits and official engagements by leaders from both countries. He made these remarks after attending the MCA Chinese New Year Open House at Wisma MCA in Jalan Ampang.

The open house event was attended by notable figures such as MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong, former prime minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, Barisan Nasional deputy chairman Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, MIC deputy president Datuk Seri M. Saravanan, BN secretary-general Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir, UMNO Supreme Council member Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan, and the Chinese ambassador to Malaysia, Ouyang Yujing.

The 20-minute drone display, featuring over 1,000 drones, was a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture of Malaysia and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of China. The display included formations spelling out “Happy Chinese New Year,” as well as iconic symbols such as Menara Kuala Lumpur and the Visit Malaysia 2026 logo.

Ahmad Zahid expressed his hope that the strong bilateral relationship will encourage more tourists from China to visit Malaysia, particularly for the Visit Malaysia Year in 2026. He noted that 3.8 million tourists from China have visited Malaysia so far, and he hopes this will contribute to the economic growth of both countries.