KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA Oct 28, 2025 – Malaysian Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim kicked off a packed diplomatic day with a bilateral meeting alongside Chinese Premier Li Qiang and his delegation, reinforcing the longstanding friendship between the two nations as a cornerstone of regional stability.
In a statement released Tuesday, Anwar described the discussions as a pivotal step in deepening trust-based ties, emphasizing mutual respect and shared goals for economic resilience amid global uncertainties. “This meeting further solidifies our close Malaysia-China partnership, serving as a symbol of robust bilateral relations anchored in regional peace,” Anwar said.
The talks centered on bolstering two-way trade and investment, with Malaysia pledging to ramp up high-value exports in key sectors including electrical and electronics (E&E), aerospace, medical devices, renewable energy, and oil & gas. These efforts will align with the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) Cooperation Plan, aiming to diversify supply chains and drive sustainable growth.
Anwar highlighted flagship projects as linchpins of the partnership, including the Automotive Hi-Tech Valley (AHTV) in Tanjung Malim—a joint venture between Malaysian automaker Proton and China’s Geely. He also spotlighted the expansion of the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) and enhanced port collaborations, which he said would cement Malaysia’s role as a premier regional logistics and maritime hub.
“Malaysia warmly welcomes ongoing investments from Chinese firms in digital technologies, semiconductors, and green innovations,” Anwar noted, tying these to the country’s ambition of emerging as ASEAN’s innovation powerhouse. Officials estimate these inflows could generate thousands of high-tech jobs and position Malaysia at the forefront of the green transition.
Regional Diplomacy Takes Center Stage
Beyond economics, the agenda extended to pressing Southeast Asian security issues. Anwar and Li addressed the newly inked Kuala Lumpur Peace Agreement between Cambodia and Thailand, finalized during the 47th ASEAN Summit. Premier Li voiced strong Chinese backing for the accord, hailing it as “a triumph of ASEAN diplomacy that promotes security through trust and dialogue.”
China reiterated its steadfast support for resolving Myanmar’s ongoing crisis, committing to sustain ceasefires and facilitate multi-stakeholder negotiations. “Our goal is to restore peace and prosperity across the region,” Li affirmed, underscoring Beijing’s role in mediating talks to prevent escalation.
The meeting comes on the heels of Anwar’s active role at the recent ASEAN Summit, where regional leaders advanced agendas on economic integration and conflict resolution. Analysts view the Malaysia-China dialogue as a stabilizing force, potentially unlocking billions in investments while countering geopolitical frictions.
As Anwar wrapped up his remarks, he struck an optimistic tone: “Through collaboration, we build not just bridges of trade, but pathways to enduring peace.” With the ASEAN bloc navigating post-pandemic recovery and great-power rivalries, Tuesday’s engagements signal Malaysia’s intent to lead by example in fostering inclusive prosperity.
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