MCCC praised for holding door open for M’sians into China

Festive greetings: (From left) Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng, MCCC president Tan Yew Sing, Dr Wan Azizah, Bai Tian and Malaysia Special Envoy to China and Malaysia-China Business Council chairman Tan Kok Wai at the celebrations in Kuala Lumpur.

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) was given a pat on the back for helping Malay, Indian and other non-Mandarin speaking entrepreneurs to explore the China market.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail said such initiatives undertaken by MCCC was much appreciated, as multiracial Malaysian entrepreneurs stood to benefit from China’s rapid growth.

“The government will continue to encourage young entrepreneurs, emerging industries and the halal industry to enter the China market,” she said at the MCCC Chinese New Year celebrations held at a hotel here yesterday.

Dr Wan Azizah said the bilateral trade volume between Malaysia and China hit a record high last year, recording US$80bil (RM326bil) in value.

“We would like more FDIs from China. China’s experience in the Internet economy, its innovative experience in helping women and youths start their own businesses and in encouraging and assisting SMEs to embrace innovation are areas Malaysia would like to learn from,” she said.

China’s Ambassador to Malaysia Bai Tian said China would remain the largest investor in Malaysia’s manufacturing industry.

“The economy and development areas are not free of risk. But we must dispel negativity to see clearly. Let’s work together as partners and continue making progress,” he said.

Describing Malaysia-China diplomatic ties as being solid over the last 45 years, Bai Tian said both countries had withstood the test of time and enjoyed tangible benefits.

“China is ready to work with Malaysia at all levels including the central government, the local government and the business sector,” he added.