Forging ties through shared history

MELAKA: Melaka, which has a long connection with China following Admiral Cheng Ho’s visits in the 15th century, wants to leverage on the historic ties in building stronger bridges with the Middle Kingdom.

Datuk Lim Ban Hong (pic), who is the special adviser on investment and China Affairs to the Melaka Chief Minister, said the state would focus on three sectors in view of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Malaysia and China on May 31.“Tourism, investments and education will be the three areas that the state hopes to strengthen with China,” he said in an interview.

Lim said the local tourism industry would be the key segment that the state is hoping to boost.

The anniversary celebration, he said, would be the right platform for the state to organise more tourism-related events and build cultural ties with cities in China.

Lim said the state government would also look into creating a positive impact on its economy and the livelihood of the locals.

“The event will be timely to consolidate the existing cooperation with China and continue to promote the steady progress of the China-Melaka relationship,” he said.

Lim said various economic zones and industrial parks in the state would be promoted to Chinese entrepreneurs during the celebration.

Melaka, he said, would also look into collaborating with Chinese universities on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes for Malaysian students.

He said TVET plays a significant role in supporting the socio-economic development of the state, hence, local universities should take advantage of the celebration to firm up cooperation with the Chinese universities.

Last month, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh said he had written to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, seeking the Federal Government’s approval for Melaka to host the celebration.