In a signed article published Tuesday across Malaysian media, Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized deepening bilateral ties ahead of his state visit to Malaysia. Titled "May the Ship of China-Malaysia Friendship Sail Toward an Even Brighter Future," the piece highlights shared historical roots, economic collaboration, and a commitment to multilateral stability in the Asia-Pacific.
Echoes of Shared History
President Xi traced enduring bonds to ancient maritime trade routes, recalling Tang Dynasty monk Yijing’s documentation of Kedah and Ming explorer Zheng He’s Malacca visits. He also honored Malaysian contributions during China’s resistance against Japanese aggression, with the Nanyang Volunteer Drivers ensuring wartime supply lines through Yunnan. These stories, Xi noted, remain "living testament[s] to friendship."
Strategic and Economic Synergy
Bilateral trade surged to $212 billion in 2024, cementing China as Malaysia’s top trading partner for 16 years. Xi underscored progress in Belt and Road projects like the Kuantan Industrial Park ($1.5B investment) and 24-hour durian logistics. Future cooperation will focus on digital, green, and blue economies alongside tourism.
People-to-People Momentum
Mutual visa exemptions drove 6 million cross-border visits in 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. Xi encouraged cultural exchanges, particularly among youth, to "visit each other as often as family."
Multilateral Priorities
Both nations pledged to strengthen ASEAN centrality and global South solidarity, with Malaysia joining BRICS as a partner. Xi called for upholding the UN-led order, countering protectionism, and ensuring stable supply chains amid rising geopolitical tensions.
The article reaffirmed China’s support for Malaysia’s 2025 ASEAN chairmanship and emphasized continued high-standard opening-up, targeting 5% GDP growth in 2025 to bolster regional stability.
