Tiong calls for more China-Sibu economic cooperation

SIBU (Aug 24): Business associations and ethnic Chinese community organisations in Sibu are encouraged to explore sustainable and resilient economic industries and investments from China.

Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Dato Sri Tiong King Sing suggested organising more exchange activities between the two regions, visiting each other’s factories, and providing continuous development opportunities for the people of Sarawak.

“We will continue to deepen economic and trade cooperation, promote technological innovation, and strengthen cultural exchanges, achieving mutual benefit and creating a brighter future together,” he said at the 50th anniversary celebration of Malaysia-China diplomatic relations held here last night.

Among those attending the event included China Consul General in Kuching Xing Weiping, Deputy Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Michael Tiang, Dewan Rakyat Deputy Speaker and Lanang MP Alice Lau, Sibu MP Oscar Ling, Bawang Assan assemblyman Dato Sri Wong Soon Koh, business associates and local prominent community leaders.

Tiong, also Bintulu MP and Dudong assemblyman, said Malaysia and China officially established diplomatic relations 50 years ago, marking the beginning of a journey of friendly cooperation.

“Over the past half-century, the relationship between Malaysia and China has continuously deepened, with cooperation expanding across various fields.

“Initially focused on economic and trade relations, the partnership has grown to encompass tourism, culture, science and technology, education, and more, all reaching new heights.”

In recent years, he said China’s achievements in high-tech, infrastructure, and poverty alleviation have been globally recognised, while Malaysia’s advantages, such as friendly policies, cultural inclusiveness, and abundant talent, make it an attractive partner.

“The two countries should seek more international cooperation opportunities, such as establishing partnerships and jointly promoting large-scale infrastructure projects.

“Additionally, more Chinese companies should be encouraged to invest in Malaysia, especially in Sarawak and Sibu, to set up factories, promote technology transfer, enhance knowledge exchange, and ultimately improve the market competitiveness and technological capabilities of Malaysian enterprises.

“This would also create more opportunities and business prospects for the people in both regions.”

Adding on, Tiong said the number of students from Malaysia and China choosing to study in each other’s countries has also surged in recent years.

“According to the Ministry of Higher Education, there are now over 40,000 Chinese students enrolled in Malaysian higher education institutions, a remarkable increase from 10,000 in 2023.

“Similarly, many Malaysian students are choosing to pursue further studies in China, drawn by its rich academic resources, advanced technology, and promising prospects.

“After graduating, these students will provide strong support for trade and cultural exchanges between Malaysia and China.”

With more Chinese enterprises entering Malaysia, Tiong said these graduates will play crucial roles in areas such as local operations, cultural adaptation, and market expansion for these companies.

He said currently, Sarawak has established over 30 sister-city relationships with various Chinese cities, laying a solid foundation for friendly exchanges and cooperation between Sarawak and China.

“Sarawak’s government has actively developed infrastructure in recent years, and the region has excellent conditions in agriculture, aquaculture, marine technology, and the oil industry. China, with its experience and expertise in similar projects, is a valuable partner.

“All parties are encouraged to seize this opportunity to strengthen connectivity between Sarawak and China, fostering a mutually beneficial and win-win relationship.”

In the tourism sector, Tiong said the extension of visa-free policies and the opening of new flight routes have led to a continuous increase in the number of tourists between the two countries.

“Malaysia’s beautiful natural scenery and rich cultural heritage attract a large number of Chinese tourists, while China’s historical sites and modern cities have become popular destinations for Malaysian tourists.

“This has promoted people-to-people exchanges and mutual understanding between the two nations.”

Meanwhile, Tiong urged all political figures to provide the greatest assistance and support to the long-term development of community associations or political parties, rather than trying to control their operations or meddle in matters such as guest lists for events.

“If the invited guest of honour is not someone of their choosing, some might resort to various tactics, putting these associations in a difficult position.

“Since I took office as federal minister, my schedule has been extremely busy, and I haven’t been able to spend much time in my constituency.

“I apologise to the public for this. Some may feel that I am frequently traveling abroad since becoming a minister, but my trips are aimed at marketing efforts to attract more international tourists to Malaysia.”

Later, Tiong announced the allocation of RM20,000 to the Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce (Sarawak Branch).