PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia and China have agreed to boost cooperation in developing the railway industry through the sharing of best practices and joint project implementation.
The Transport Ministry said the collaboration was formalised through the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between China's National Railway Administration and the ministry on strengthening cooperation in the railway sector.
The MoU was signed on Wednesday by Minister Anthony Loke and Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia Ouyang Yujing, in the presence of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Chinese President Xi Jinping.
"Key areas of cooperation include rail industry development, sharing of best practices, implementation of joint projects, organising training programmes and conferences, as well as exchange visits between officials and experts.
"This effort paves the way for technology transfer, investment in public transportation systems, and enhanced railway operational efficiency in Malaysia. It is also expected to support the sustainable development agenda by providing an eco-friendly and highly competitive transport system," the statement on Thursday (April 17) read.
The ministry added that this collaboration aligns with the ministry's aspiration to strengthen the national transport network and enhance domestic and regional connectivity, which will contribute to the overall well-being and prosperity of the people and the nation.
"As a key trading partner and investor in infrastructure projects, China is seen as capable of playing a strategic role in helping Malaysia build an efficient, inclusive and future-oriented transport ecosystem," the statement added.
A total of 31 MoUs and exchange documents were signed between ministries and agencies from both countries on Wednesday, marking a deep commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation, particularly in the development of infrastructure and modern transportation systems. - Bernama
