BEIJING: Malaysia could unlock a new wave of Chinese investment, with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim expected to announce two major initiatives and Beijing open to financing more high-impact projects, says Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi (pic).
“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 the meeting.
During the meeting held at the Great Hall of the People, the two leaders held discussions on various issues, including efforts to strengthen existing cooperation and explore new areas of collaboration in various fields, including Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).
Ahmad Zahid revealed that China was prepared to consider financing other projects beyond the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL), particularly those with a significant economic impact.
Such financing could open up opportunities for the country to pursue other major development projects, although no specific projects or financing arrangements were disclosed, he added.
The Deputy Prime Minister said both countries were also looking to deepen cooperation beyond investment and technology transfer, particularly through knowledge-sharing and the transfer of expertise in the EV sector.
On another matter, Ahmad Zahid said China had reiterated its strong support for Malaysia’s bid into BRICS.
He said the backing was important as Malaysia sought the support of existing members to secure full membership.
“Although President Xi Jinping has expressed his support, today’s discussions reiterated that China strongly supports Malaysia’s admission as a full member of BRICS,” Ahmad Zahid said.
Established in 2009, BRICS comprises 11 countries, including Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, as well as Egypt. Malaysia became a partner country of the bloc in early 2025.
Ahmad Zahid also said that Malaysia would continue to play a role in strengthening cooperation among Asean, China and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), including efforts to pursue a trilateral agreement.
“They hope Malaysia will continue to play a similar role when the next meeting (Asean-GCC-China) is held in China,” he said.
He said cooperation could also involve greater use of the Chinese renminbi in trade between China and the GCC.
The trilateral summit which first took place during Malaysia’s Asean chairmanship in 2025, aims to strengthen economic cooperation among Asean, the GCC and China.
