Civil societies key to strengthening Malaysia–China ties, says deputy minister

KOTA KINABALU (Jan 17): Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Datuk Chan Foong Hin has emphasised the important role of civil society organisations in strengthening Malaysia–China relations, saying the long-standing friendship between the two countries has been built steadily through people-driven initiatives over the past five decades.

He said bilateral relations have evolved beyond formal diplomatic engagement to encompass economic cooperation, cultural exchange and strong people-to-people ties.

“Malaysia–China relations today are no longer confined to official diplomacy, but have grown into deep cooperation in culture, the economy and people-to-people exchanges,” he said during the Malaysia–China 52nd Anniversary Chinese New Year Celebration and Overseas Promotion of Chinese Martial Arts Cultural Exchange Gala at Kian Kok Secondary School here.

The event, which attracted more than 2,000 participants from various ethnic backgrounds, was part of the Overseas Promotion of Chinese Martial Arts cultural exchange initiative.

It featured a double-lion high-pole performance, a video screening, and the official launch of the anniversary celebration and exchange programme.

Chan, who is also Kota Kinabalu MP, praised the Sabah–China Friendship Association, the main organiser of the event, for its consistent efforts in fostering bilateral ties at the state level.

“For many years, almost all Malaysia–China commemorative activities in Sabah have been spearheaded by the association, which has maintained close and positive cooperation with the Chinese side,” he said.

He added that the association’s role has remained significant since the appointment of the first Chinese consul-general in Kota Kinabalu, describing it as a key bridge between Sabah and China.

Sharing his personal experience, Chan said his relationship with the association began in 2018, prior to his election to Parliament.

“My engagement with the association was built on shared commitment and mutual respect, not on political position.

“This is why I hold the association in such high regard, you have always prioritised culture, friendship and social responsibility,” he added.

The event was further enhanced by the presence of a professional production team from Jiangmen Radio and Television Station, which travelled to Sabah to document the celebration.

The footage is expected to be broadcast on mainland Chinese television during the Lunar New Year period, reaching millions of viewers, including nearly five million residents of Jiangmen.

Chan welcomed the collaboration, saying it went beyond cultural documentation.

“It serves as an important bridge to showcase Sabah’s multicultural harmony, festive atmosphere and rich Chinese heritage to audiences in China, while also supporting tourism promotion in conjunction with the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign,” he said.

Organisers noted that Malaysia’s Chinese community has long preserved and innovated its cultural traditions, from dragon and lion dances to martial arts and festive customs, adding that Chinese New Year has become a shared national celebration within Malaysia’s multicultural society.

The event was officiated by Chan as guest of honour, with Deputy Consul-General of the Chinese Consulate in Kota Kinabalu Xue Xiaoning attending as a special guest.

Chan concluded by expressing hope that Malaysia–China friendship would continue to grow stronger for generations to come.