KUALA LUMPUR: The friendship between Malaysia and China transcends beyond trade and investment, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (pic).
He noted that it also involves celebrating cultural diversity and civilisation.
He emphasised that the vision to respect cultural diversity and honour the true meaning of civilisation is equally important.
"I have emphasised this matter during my meeting with China’s president Xi Jinping," he said.
"I also believe that this spirit should be present as we celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year," he added in his speech during the Chinese New Year Global Launching event at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre on Saturday (Jan 25).
This event was held for the first time outside of China, with Malaysia chosen to spearhead the celebration.
Anwar stated that the Chinese New Year celebration in the country is a manifestation of Malaysia’s acceptance and policy of inclusivity.
"It is to make sure that every Malaysian has a place here and feels proud of this country," he added.
"Appreciating other cultures might be alien to some of us, but this phenomenon could be meaningful, not only to our survival, but it also means our readiness to welcome our friends from overseas," Anwar said.
Anwar cited a saying from the Song Dynasty, which he said beautifully captured the essence of the bilateral relationship with China.
"We have indeed chosen to move beyond all uncertainties to embrace a future of thriving partnerships and shared goals," he said.
Also present were Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, Chinese counterpart Sun Yeli, Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia Ouyang Yujing, and China’s vice Culture and Tourism Minister Gao Zheng.
