KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia plays a crucial role in connecting the ASEAN region to global markets as a strategic hub in Southeast Asia, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. He emphasized Malaysia’s key position in facilitating trade and investment, noting ASEAN’s combined gross domestic product (GDP) of over US$3.6 trillion (RM16 trillion) and its population of more than 680 million people present significant opportunities for businesses looking to expand into the region.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid highlighted that for Chinese enterprises seeking to enter this dynamic region, Malaysia offers an ideal gateway with its strategic location, robust infrastructure, and skilled workforce. Through frameworks like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), Malaysia and China have fostered deeper collaboration in infrastructure development, trade, and investment.
He made these remarks in his opening speech at the Gala dinner celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Malaysia-China Diplomatic
Relations and the Fifth World Association Presidents’ Conference (5th WAPC) held in Kuala Lumpur. Ahmad Zahid further explained that the BRI has enabled Malaysia to position itself as a key facilitator of connectivity within ASEAN, particularly in emerging sectors such as green energy, digital economies, and sustainable development.
Ahmad Zahid expressed that Malaysia and China share a vision for the future that includes tapping into high-growth areas to create jobs, drive innovation, and enhance regional connectivity, as Malaysia continues to strengthen its role as an ASEAN hub. He stated that Malaysia is prepared to continue working with China and the global community to foster innovation, drive sustainable growth, and address challenges, while emphasizing collaboration in creating a prosperous, inclusive, and resilient future.
Additionally, Ahmad Zahid noted that the bilateral relationship between Malaysia and China extends beyond trade, with education emerging as a cornerstone of the partnership. He ann
ounced that China has granted Malaysia 5,125 placements for Malaysian students to join technical and vocational education and training (TVET) institutions, an initiative aimed at equipping the younger generation with skills to meet future challenges.
“These initiatives not only equip our younger generation with the skills to meet the challenges of tomorrow but also foster cultural and academic exchanges between our nations, creating a rich tapestry of shared understanding and mutual respect,” he remarked. Earlier, Ahmad Zahid launched the coffee table book titled “Blossoming and Fruiting (Mekar dan Berbuah)” in conjunction with the 50th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between Malaysia and China.
The event was attended by notable figures including China’s Ambassador to Malaysia Ouyang Yujing, Deputy Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan, and 5th WAPC chairman and Malaysian Chinese Association president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong.