BEIJING: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is expected to announce two major initiatives involving China, with Beijing also prepared to consider financing other key Malaysian projects with significant economic impact, says Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
The Deputy Prime Minister said the two matters were discussed during his bilateral meeting with Chinese Vice-Premier Ding Xuexiang here on Thursday (Oct 15) but declined to reveal details, saying the announcement should be made by Anwar himself.
"Several projects were discussed. When the time comes, let the Prime Minister himself make the announcement.
"We welcome what is being worked on. In my view, there are two very significant matters that the Prime Minister himself should announce," he told Malaysian media after his bilateral meeting with Ding.
The Deputy Prime Minister and Ding held the bilateral meeting at the Great Hall of the People.
Ahmad Zahid said China was prepared to consider providing financing through the Export-Import Bank of China (China Exim Bank) for other projects beyond the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL), particularly those with a significant impact on Malaysia’s economy.
He said the financing offer could open up opportunities for Malaysia to pursue other major development projects, although no specific projects or financing arrangements were disclosed.
The ECRL, he added, had involved substantial investment and financing backed by government guarantees.
Ahmad Zahid said both countries were also looking to deepen cooperation through technology transfer and knowledge-sharing, including in the electric vehicle (EV) sector.
He said China wanted cooperation to go beyond investments by its companies to include the transfer of technology and expertise to Malaysia.
The discussions would be brought to Anwar for further consideration, with follow-up action to be coordinated with the relevant ministers, he added.
Anwar is expected to visit China next month to attend the Apec Summit, Ahmad Zahid added.
