SIBU: Bilateral trade volume between China and Malaysia has achieved a record-breaking US$212.04bil in 2024, says China’s consul-general in Kuching, Xing Weiping.
"This marks the 16th consecutive year that China has remained Malaysia’s largest trading partner," said Xing at a Chinese New Year gathering organised by the United Chinese Association in Sibu on Saturday night (Feb 1).
The function was officiated by Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Speaking on the growing exchanges between the two nations, Xing said that the implementation of visa-free policies has significantly boosted travel.
“In 2024, the number of Chinese visitors to Malaysia exceeded 3.8 million, more than double that of 2023,” he said, attributing the rise to the recent extension of visa-free stays for Malaysian citizens to 30 days.
Against this backdrop of strengthened diplomatic ties, China-Sarawak cooperation has also been steadily expanding.
“Collaboration is now moving beyond traditional infrastructure to sectors such as green energy, equipment manufacturing, digital economy, and healthcare,” Xing said.
He said that more Chinese enterprises were recognising Sarawak’s development potential and seeking opportunities for investment.
Xing expressed confidence in the future of bilateral cooperation, citing recent breakthroughs such as the first-ever shipment of 20,000 tons of methanol from Bintulu to China.
He also called on the Chinese community in Sibu to continue the pioneering spirit of their ancestors in fostering China-Sarawak ties.
“We hope the Chinese community will promote mutual cooperation, spread Chinese culture, and strengthen friendships. While achieving their own development, they will also contribute to building a China-Malaysia community of shared future, leading to the common prosperity of both nations,” he said.
Xing recalled that in 1992, China President Xi Jinping, who was the then secretary of the Fuzhou Municipal Committee, led a delegation to visit Sibu, bridging the exchange and cooperation between "Big Fuzhou" and "Small Fuzhou (Sibu)."
"Numerous Chinese enterprises, represented by Rimbunan Hijau Group and KTS Group, have persisted in establishing Chinese-language media, supporting Chinese education, and passing on Chinese culture. They have also opened a window for Malaysians to recognize China and the world," he added.
