KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia and China have developed a robust relationship that continues to flourish in commerce, investment, cultural exchanges, and people-to-people ties.
MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong emphasised that the collaboration between the two nations has yielded mutual benefits and significantly contributed to regional stability and development.
Dr Wee highlighted that the enduring friendship, cooperation, and mutual respect between Malaysia and China have lasted for five decades.
“As we mark this special occasion, let us reiterate our commitment to deepening and expanding our bilateral relations further.
Let’s continue to construct bridges of understanding and cooperation that will illuminate the path towards a prosperous future for both Malaysia and China,” he said.
Dr Wee attended a commemorative dinner for the 50th anniversary of Malaysia-China bilateral relations, which was graced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and China Premier Li Qiang on Wednesday (June 19).
Expressing his delight at being part of the grand dinner commemorating this significant milestone, Dr Wee conveyed his heartfelt wishes for increased prosperity and harmony between the two nations.
On the same day, Prime Minister Anwar hosted an official luncheon in honour of Premier Li Qiang at Seri Perdana. During the state banquet, Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said, “Prime Minister Anwar spared no effort in promoting Malaysia’s products to the fullest, truly embodying the role of the country’s ‘number one super salesman’.”
He mentioned that at the state banquet, the Malaysian government specifically recommended the King of Fruits, durian, including favourites among Chinese consumers like Musang King and Black Thorn.
“Of course, not forgetting the Mangosteen and the unique Malacca Cendol Pulut,” he added.
Additionally, the minister mentioned that the dishes prepared for the banquet, along with the presented programs, fully showcased the advantages and characteristics of Malaysia’s multiculturalism, symbolising the lasting friendship between Malaysia and China.
The food served to Premier Li Qiang included young mango salad, Brown Cuttlefish with water spinach and dark sweet sauce, Peanut and sesame seeds, and Stir-fried Scallops with Salted Egg.
The luncheon also featured Red Snapper Fish in Tamarind Soup, Steamed Fragrant White Rice, and Seafood Fried Rice. Other dishes included Braised Lamb in Creamy Tomato Gravy, Fried Garoupa with Sweet and Sour Sauce, Grilled Squid with Torch Ginger and Chili Sauce, Stir-Fried Prawn with Seafood Paste Sauce, Roasted Beef Tenderloin with Black Pepper and Mushroom Sauce, and Braised Broccoli with Shitake Mushroom.
In addition, the luncheon showcased traditional dances from various Malaysian cultures, such as the Auspicious Chinese fan dance, Bharatanatyam Cindian Classical dance, Medley Borneo, and Joget Serampang Laut.
Apart from the Chinese delegation, the luncheon was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Transport Minister Anthony Loke, and Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu.
Other attendees included Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang, Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir, and Tourism, Arts, and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.
This visit marks Premier Li Qiang’s inaugural official visit to Malaysia since taking office in March 2023.
The occasion coincides with the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China, following the signing of the Joint Statement by second Prime Minister Tun Abdul Razak Hussein and then-Premier Chou En Lai on May 31, 1974.
Malaysia’s diplomatic relations with China have only strengthened since the bilateral relationship was upgraded to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2013.