A display of a thousand drones marks over 50 years of diplomatic relations
KUALA LUMPUR: The close relationship between Malaysia and China made this year’s Chinese New Year celebrations even grander, with the stunning display featuring over 1,000 drones by a team from China at the KLCC Twin Towers recently.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi cited the recent drone display, which reflected the ties forged between the two countries over the past 50 years.
“The recent drone display at KLCC by a team from China reflected our diplomatic ties with China.
“It is not only a result of our Government-to-Government relationship but, what is important, is between businesses and the people.
“This has been elevated through the visits and official visits carried out by the leaders of Malaysia and China,” the Barisan Nasional chairman told reporters after attending the MCA Chinese New Year Open House at Wisma MCA in Jalan Ampang.
Also present were MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong, deputy president Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon, secretary-general Datuk Chong Sin Woon as well as other top MCA leaders.
The annual open house saw the attendance of Barisan deputy chairman Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, secretary-general Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir, MIC deputy president Datuk Seri M. Saravanan and Chinese ambassador to Malaysia, Ouyang Yujing.
The 20-minute display, featuring over 1,000 drones, was held in conjunction with the Chinese New Year celebrations and was held with collaboration between the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of China.
Among the phrases formed by the drone formation were Happy Chinese New Year, Menara Kuala Lumpur, Menara 118, the Visit Malaysia 2026 logo, as well as symbols of the wau (kite) and tanglung (lantern).
Meanwhile, Ahmad Zahid said he hopes that more tourists from China will visit Malaysia in conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026).
“So far, 3.8 million tourists from China have visited Malaysia. It is hoped that this can help the economic growth of both countries,” he added.
The VM2026 campaign was officially launched on Jan 6, featuring a fresh logo, mascots, a new theme song and aircraft livery as part of efforts to elevate the country’s tourism sector.
On a separate matter, Ahmad Zahid also rubbished the remarks made by former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad that Umno was “nothing more than a fly in the government.”
“I respect his age but I do not respect his opinions,” responded Ahmad Zahid, who is also the Umno president.


