SERDANG: Malaysia and China should strengthen their economic partnership beyond traditional trade and investment by embracing innovation, enhancing industrial cooperation and developing talent, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
In a video address at the opening ceremony of the 16th Malaysia-China Entrepreneurs Conference (MCEC) 2026 on Thursday (Nov 12), the Prime Minister said both countries strongly complement each other economically and have great potential to expand their cooperation.
He said the conference has grown into an important platform for fostering business connections, strengthening mutual understanding and creating new opportunities between the two countries.
"Our partnership extends beyond traditional trade and investment. We should continue to work together to embrace innovation, strengthen industrial cooperation, develop talent and create greater value for businesses and our people," he said.
Anwar said the conference should open new doors, inspire fresh ideas and bring the Malaysian and Chinese business communities closer together.
Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Steven Sim delivered Anwar's keynote address on his behalf at the event, which was also attended by newly-appointed Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia Yao Wen.
Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) president Loo Kok Seong said the chamber has served as a bridge between Malaysian and Chinese companies for 36 years, helping them establish connections, hold discussions and reach agreements for cooperation.
He said MCEC had been held for 16 years, alternating between Malaysia and China, with previous editions hosted in cities including Xiamen, Chengdu, Nanjing, Fuzhou, Hainan and Guiyang.
Loo said this year's theme, "A Millennium of Trade, Built on Virtue", underscored the values of honesty, openness, responsibility and mutual benefit, which align with the aspirations of the Malaysia Madani framework.
He said economic development is not solely the government's responsibility but also requires the commitment of the business community.
He urged local entrepreneurs to support national economic policies and work closely with the government, foreign investors and business partners.
Loo also called for a stable administration, clear policy direction and an inclusive approach that respects the country's diverse races, cultures and religions, saying a clean, transparent and efficient government would strengthen investor confidence and Malaysia's reputation.
Acknowledging the challenges businesses face, including rising costs, limited markets and the need to adopt new technologies, he said companies cannot tackle these issues alone.
He expressed hope that the government would continue listening to the concerns of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and the wider business community.
Loo also welcomed greater Chinese investment in Malaysia, including companies setting up factories and establishing partnerships with local businesses.
However, he stressed that foreign investors should understand local cultures and workplace practices, comply with Malaysian laws and grow alongside local SMEs.
He also hoped more Malaysian companies would venture into the Chinese market, describing bilateral cooperation as a mutually beneficial relationship.
This year's conference is expected to attract between 600 and 700 entrepreneurs and industry players.
Organised annually by MCCC, it is the chamber's flagship event, bringing together business leaders from both countries to explore trade, investment and cross-border collaboration.
The conference will feature discussions on Malaysia-China trade and investment policies, global economic trends, semiconductor and artificial intelligence data centre value chains, and opportunities for Chinese and Malaysian brands to expand into each other's markets.
It will also examine corporate social responsibility and the role of Chinese business leaders in contributing to society, with Deputy Finance Minister Liew Chin Tong delivering an address at one of the thematic forums.
