(from left) Chan Seng Fatt, Cao Yi, Datuk Abdul Majid Khan, Liang Jian Zeng, Datuk Shaharuddin Abu Sohot, Chang Lih Kang, Shen Hai Xiong, Teo Nie Ching, Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai, An Xiaoyu, Datuk Kuik Cheng Kang, Guo Tong and Kevin Foo at China & Malaysia: Joining Hands for Shared Prosperity event in Kuala Lumpur, April 15, 2025. — GLENN GUAN/The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: The airing of the Classics Quoted by Xi Jinping TV programme in Malay on Malaysian mainstream media signifies a new era in Malaysia–China cultural relations, says Chang Lih Kang.
“Malaysians have consistently shown interest in learning from China’s journey, gaining insights into the forces behind its transformation, and understanding the values and narratives that define its people,” said the Science, Technology and Innovation Minister during the launch of the Classics Quoted by Xi Jinping (Malay version) ceremony and the China and Malaysia: Joining Hands for Shared Prosperity event on Tuesday (April 15).
“Classics Quoted by Xi Jinping serves as a valuable window into China's rich cultural and philosophical roots, bringing our people closer in understanding and spirit,” added Chang.
He described President Xi Jinping as “not only a visionary leader and a respected statesman, but also a figure whose deep humanistic values and cultural wisdom continue to inspire many.”
Chang noted that under Xi’s leadership, China has made significant progress in areas such as the economy, science, technology and agriculture while maintaining a strong focus on inclusive and sustainable development.
“We have observed China’s steadfast commitment to growth that benefits not only its people but also the region and global community,” he said.
Chang highlighted Malaysia’s ongoing cooperation with China, especially in science and technology, stating that the Ministry believes in the power of partnerships.
"Last year, we were proud to have collaborated with our counterparts through China–Malaysia initiatives in advancing scientific and technological cooperation. From talent exchanges to joint research opportunities, our shared commitment to innovation has brought tangible benefits to both countries," he added.
He expressed confidence that the event would strengthen ties even further and create further media and cultural collaboration opportunities.
“Together, we can continue to write new chapters of progress, peace, and shared prosperity,” Chang said, adding that it was “a great pleasure and privilege” to be part of the occasion.
Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi congratulated the Malaysian and Chinese media on the successful collaboration in producing the Malay-language version of the acclaimed Classics Quoted by Xi Jinping, a programme by China Media Group. He described the initiative as a meaningful milestone in deepening cultural and media ties between the two nations.
“China Media Group has long acted as a bridge of understanding between countries, and its ongoing efforts to promote cultural exchange are sincerely appreciated. I believe this collaboration will further enhance the longstanding friendship between Malaysia and China,” he said in a congratulatory letter.
Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia Ouyang Yujing said China and Malaysia are sincere and trustworthy friends who support each other and are close partners committed to mutual benefit and joint development.
“Under the strategic guidance of our two countries’ leaders, high-level exchanges have grown increasingly close, economic and trade cooperation has improved in quality and scale, and cultural exchanges have become more frequent. Our bilateral ties have continuously progressed and achieved new milestones,” he said in the letter.
He added that President Xi Jinping is currently on a state visit to Malaysia and expressed confidence that, with the joint efforts of both sides, the visit will yield fruitful results.
In conjunction with Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit from April 15 to 17, the China Media Group-produced programme Classics Quoted by Xi Jinping (Malay Version) began airing on RTM and multiple mainstream media outlets in Malaysia on April 14.
Also present at the event were Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching, Star Media Group Bhd group chief executive officer Chan Seng Fatt, SMG chief operating officer (COO) Lydia Wang, SMGchief content officer Datin Paduka Esther Ng, Bernama chairman Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai, National Film Development Corporation (Finas) chairman Datuk Hans Isaac and Broadcasting Department drector-general Datuk Suhaimi Sulaiman.
Others in attendance included Tourism Malaysia Director-General Manoharan Periasamy, China Media Group (CMG) president Shen Haixiong, CMG director-general and editorial officer Liang Jianzeng, CMG Asian and African Languages Programming Centre director An Xiaoyu, CMG Asia-Pacific Station director Cao Yi, CCTV.com chairman Guo Tong, 8TV chief operating officer Kevin Foo, Malaysia-China Friendship Association president Datuk Abdul Majid Ahmad Khan and Media Chinese International Limited (MCIL) Group editor-in-chief (Malaysia) Datuk Kuik Cheng Kang.
