Sarawak key to China–Malaysia ties in green energy, tech and exchanges, says consul-general

KUCHING (Jan 30): Sarawak is playing an increasingly important role in China–Malaysia relations, particularly in green energy, technology and people-to-people exchanges, said the Consul-General of the People’s Republic of China in Kuching, Xing Weiping.

He highlighted the active role of Sarawak’s leadership, noting that the Premier, deputy premiers, ministers and deputy ministers have made multiple visits to China to promote trade, investment and cooperation.

“Their travels across China have contributed Sarawak’s strength to the development of China–Malaysia relations,” Xing said during his speech at the Spring Festival Reception 2026 hosted by the Chinese Consulate-General on Thursday night.

Among the notable collaborations, Xing cited Southeast Asia’s first liquid hydrogen demonstration project between Jiangsu Guofu Hydrogen Energy Equipment Co Ltd and Bintulu Port, which he said supports Sarawak’s ambition to become a regional “green energy hub”.

He also pointed to the Suzhou Industrial Park as a reference model for Sarawak in attracting high-end investment and fostering innovation, as well as the implementation of China’s green energy technologies in Sarawak, including the state’s first floating photovoltaic project at the Batang Ai Hydroelectric Plant.

In the healthcare sector, Xing said the establishment of the Fudan University Joint Research Center for Innovative Drug in Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine has introduced AI-driven healthcare to Sarawak for the first time, advancing the state’s medical, research and educational development.

“Although separated by the sea, China and Sarawak are firmly aligned in our commitment to green development, technology-driven growth and improving people’s livelihoods,” Xing said.

He also shared that bilateral trade between China and Malaysia has reached nearly US$200 billion, with China remaining Malaysia’s largest trading partner for the 17th consecutive year.

Moreover, Xing noted that the visa-free policy has driven people-to-people exchanges to a historic high, with annual two-way travel flows projected to exceed five million.

Looking ahead, he said 2026 marks the start of China’s 15th Five-Year Plan and Malaysia’s 13th Malaysia Plan, describing the next five years as critical for the modernisation of both countries.

“We should stay true to the original aspiration of diplomatic relations, build more consensus and synergy, reject all disruptions, and jointly promote the deepening and solid advancement of a high-level strategic China–Malaysia community with a shared future,” he said.

Xing also called on the Chinese community in Sarawak to continue playing an active role in strengthening bilateral ties.

Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian represented Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at the dinner.