Marking a milestone: (Holding hands, from left) Zheng, Loke and Loo cutting cake at the Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce’s 35th anniversary and installation ceremony. — ART CHEN/The Star
PUTRAJAYA: With emerging technologies reshaping global trade, Malaysian businesses should actively engage with China’s advanced industries and supporting ecosystems, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI) and smart transportation, says Transport Minister Anthony Loke.
Speaking at the Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce’s (MCCC) 35th anniversary and installation ceremony on Thursday night, Loke said businesses should also explore opportunities in green energy, the digital economy and sustainable infrastructure.
He emphasised the importance of leveraging government policy support and innovative financing tools such as cross-border finance, green bonds, offshore renminbi business, export credit and cooperation funds, all of which can provide financial backing and risk mitigation for enterprises.
However, Loke cautioned against over-reliance on any single market.
Beyond China, he said Malaysian companies should also look towards expanding into the wider Asean region and other emerging markets.
Loke noted that Malaysia-China trade and investment ties have continued to deepen over the past decades.
From January to April, bilateral trade volume reached approximately RM161.98bil, while China-Asean trade totalled about US$694bil (RM2.9 trillion) up to August this year, a 9.7% increase compared with the previous year.
He also commended the MCCC for its long-standing role in supporting businesses, promoting trade missions and strengthening business-to-business cooperation.
“The MCCC has served as a critical bridge for Malaysian companies navigating opportunities in China and the wider region,” he said.
Charge d’Affaires of Chinese Embassy in Malaysia, Zheng Xuefang, who also attended the event, described the upgraded Asean-China Free Trade Area 3.0 (ACFTA 3.0) as a milestone reflecting a firm commitment to multilateralism and free trade.
He said China-Asean economic ties have grown steadily, with both sides remaining among each other’s largest trading partners, and the upgraded agreement offering clearer direction and a more stable environment for businesses.
Congratulating Malaysia on its successful Asean chairmanship, Zheng said Malaysia remains a trusted partner with vast potential for cooperation in AI, the digital economy, green energy and cultural exchange.
MCCC president Loo Kok Seong reflected on the chamber’s 35-year journey, crediting past leaders and members for building a foundation of trust and mutual benefit that has enabled Malaysian companies to grow alongside deepening Malaysia-China relations.
He said the ACFTA 3.0 upgrade presents wider opportunities for Malaysian businesses, including transnational projects, third-country investments and participation in regional platforms, while enhancing the chamber’s international role as a voice for the regional business community.
Loo added that the chamber will continue helping members tap into emerging sectors linked to the agreement, particularly in digital trade, logistics and green industries.
He urged companies to think regionally, act proactively and strengthen their capabilities to stay competitive.
