KUALA LUMPUR: The efforts of Chinese entrepreneurs both domestically and globally have laid the foundation for stronger economic links across borders, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He acknowledged the role of Malaysian and international Chinese entrepreneurs in driving the local and global economy.
“This economic cooperation ensures the security of crucial supply chains and promote the global socioeconomic agenda.
“From South-East Asia, particularly Asean, to the United States, Canada, Europe and Africa, Chinese entrepreneurs have collaborated closely with others and laid the foundation of forging deeper and stronger business economic links across national borders,” he said in his keynote address at the 17th World Chinese Entrepreneurs Convention opening ceremony here yesterday.
Given Malaysia’s multiracial makeup, Anwar said this presented the choice of either using it as a strength or to sow discord and differences.
“Fortunately, for decades, Malaysians have chosen to work together whether it is with the Malays, Chinese, Indians, Dayaks or Kadazans.
“I salute all ethnic communities as the vast majority have made the choice to work together and build a better Malaysia, ensuring we excel as a great nation,” he said.
Anwar also acknowledged the contribution of the Malaysian Chinese community in the country’s socioeconomic developments such as in the economic, cultural, educational and industrial sectors.
On Malaysia-China ties, the Prime Minister said stronger bilateral relations between the two nations would also assist the region immensely.
“We will continue to embark on this policy.
“China also remains Malaysia’s largest trading partner for 15 consecutive years with total trade reaching almost US$100bil (RM436.1bil),” he said.
Anwar said Chinese Premier Li Qiang’s visit to Malaysia in June reaffirmed the enduring friendship and mutual respect between both countries.
Both leaders had then witnessed the signing of the second cycle of the Five-Year Programme for Economic and Trade Cooperation and a memorandum of understanding on Strengthening Investment Cooperation in Digital Economy and Green Development.
“We have laid a solid foundation for enhanced collaboration in key and innovative sectors that will drive the economy forward.
“The relationship is not only on traditional investments, policies and practices but also covers sectors like tourism,” Anwar said yesterday.
He reiterated Malaysia’s stand in engaging with both the East and West.
“We invite investments and benefited from investments from the United States and Europe while also recognising the phenomenal change taking place in the geopolitics and economic vibrancy of China,” he said.
The Prime Minister said the government was open to constructive input from businesses to foster a more conducive investment and innovative environment.
“We craft policies but you can advise us what else needs to be done to foster an environment that is conducive for investment and innovation.
“We are not here to suggest that this is a perfect system or policy. We are here to govern, learn and make the necessary adjustments,” he said.
He also said better housing, education, health and infrastructure for Malaysians could be ensured through achieving economic success.
“This is what we mean by inclusivity. A policy that helps promote economic growth and caters to the people’s welfare,” he said.
