KUALA LUMPUR, June 20 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today praised the friendly and respectful attitude of Chinese leaders, emphasising their deep understanding of cultural differences during his recent interactions with Chinese Premier Li Qiang.
Anwar in his speech addressed the scepticism often expressed by international observers, particularly from Western countries, about the enhanced bilateral relationship between Malaysia and China.
He said critics frequently question whether such a comprehensive strategic partnership would be detrimental to Malaysia, a smaller nation.
“I have given assurances based on historical antecedents from the time of the emperors in China and the sultans of Melaka. This visit by Premier Li Qiang, my esteemed friend, has proven the case. We engaged in hours of discussions without any arrogance or ultimatums.
“While there are contentious issues, we address them as equal partners and trusted friends... We engaged in hours of discussion as equal partners and trusted friends,” he said in his speech at the Malaysia-China business community luncheon here.
Highlighting the broader scope of Malaysia-China cooperation, Anwar touched on shared concerns such as the future of education, technical and vocational education and training, artificial intelligence, and digital advancements.
He reiterated the mutual benefits of learning from each other and working together to improve the quality of life for the people in both countries, as well as the importance of understanding and appreciating cultural and religious differences.
Anwar recalled organising a major international conference in 1995 on Islam and Confucianism, which promoted ethical principles and humane economic practices, and was pleased that Li supported the idea of enhancing understanding and dialogue between Islam and Confucianism.
“I choose to say this as this itself is a rebuke and rebuttal to the incessant propaganda that we should cast aspersions and fear the dominance of China economically, militarily and technologically.
“...We in Malaysia, having a neutral stance, have the resolve to work with all countries and with China. When we see Premier Li Qiang, we see (China) as a friend that would work together with us, collaborate and prove to the world that this unity, this friendship, is meaningful,” he said.
The luncheon was also attended by Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz and China Commerce Minister Wang Wentao.
Li arrived in Malaysia on Tuesday for an official visit, the third and last leg of his eight-day tour that has taken him to New Zealand and Australia.
Li’s visit coincides with the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China, following the signing of the Joint Communiqué between second Prime Minister Tun Abdul Razak Hussein and then Chinese Premier Chou En Lai on May 31, 1974.
China has remained Malaysia’s largest trading partner for 15 consecutive years since 2009, with total trade amounting to RM450.84 billion in 2023.
Malaysia’s ties with China have grown since the elevation of bilateral relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2013.
— Bernama
