THE Malaysia-China Business Council (MCBC) hosted an exclusive farewell luncheon to formally honour the retirement of China’s Ambassador to Malaysia, Ouyang Yujing, who concluded a highly distinguished diplomatic tenure of nearly six years.
The event convened prominent industry leaders to celebrate Ouyang’s many contributions, lasting personal friendships and unwavering commitment to navigating bilateral opportunities and challenges.
Under his stewardship, Malaysia-China relations reached unprecedented new heights, anchored by a series of frequent and significant high-level engagements between the top leadership of both nations.
Most notably, his nearly six-year tenure witnessed monumental diplomatic milestones, including Malaysia’s hosting of China’s President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, engagements that have deeply solidified the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries.
Addressing the delegates and reflecting on this elevated trajectory, Ouyang noted that the most effective and sustainable strategy to continually enhance these diplomatic ties was through the vigorous strengthening of the business community and the broader economic relationship.
This strategic vision is reflected in the nations’ robust economic synergy, with China successfully retaining its position as Malaysia’s largest trading partner for 17 consecutive years.
During the retirement lunch, MCBC chairman Senator Tan Sri Low Kian Chuan delivered a heartfelt tribute, expressing profound gratitude for the Ouyang’s pivotal leadership during the unprecedented challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Assuming office in late 2020, Ouyang was instrumental in accelerating critical healthcare cooperation, orchestrating the delivery of over 40 million doses of Chinese vaccines, championing local fill-and-finish manufacturing and facilitating essential medical supplies that provided Malaysia with vital support during its most critical hours.
He was further commended for his proactive, hands-on approach to business advocacy.
Demonstrating a strong sense of diplomatic responsibility, he frequently engaged directly with various chambers of commerce and industry representatives, effectively resolving emerging bilateral trade and personnel exchange issues, said Low.
Low and Ouyang exchanged souvenirs at the event to honour the latter’s exemplary service and commemorate the long-standing friendship between the ambassador and MCBC.
