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His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia has expressed strong confidence that Malaysia and China will continue to deepen their cooperation, even in the face of ongoing geopolitical divisions worldwide.
In a message shared on His Majesty’s official Facebook page, Sultan Ibrahim underscored Malaysia’s commitment to fostering stronger economic integration, enhancing industrial and supply chain collaboration, improving regional connectivity, and upholding the principles of mutual respect and shared benefit in all international partnerships—including with China.
“I believe there is tremendous potential for Chinese companies and investors to explore opportunities here, as this aligns with regional connectivity goals and high-quality development under China’s Belt and Road Initiative,” the King said.
He highlighted that the Forest City Special Financial Zone, situated within the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), is emerging as one of the region’s most attractive investment destinations, thanks to its strategic incentives and prime location.
The remarks were made during an official audience with Chinese President Xi Jinping at Istana Negara today, as part of Xi’s three-day State Visit to Malaysia.
Sultan Ibrahim also extended an invitation to the Chinese government to promote greater linguistic and educational exchange between the two countries.
“There has been an increase in student exchange between our nations, and Malaysia hopes to send more of our students to China to broaden their knowledge and cultural understanding,” His Majesty said.
“I believe language serves as a crucial bridge in strengthening bilateral relations. In this spirit, I aim to actively promote the Sultan Ibrahim Chair of Malay Studies at Beijing Foreign Studies University,” he added.
President Xi was accorded a full state welcome at the palace as part of his second official visit to Malaysia, marking his first in 12 years. His previous visit in 2013 was a key moment in diplomatic ties, elevating Malaysia-China relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
This visit is part of Xi’s first series of State Visits for the year, which also includes Vietnam and Cambodia.
Malaysia and China established diplomatic relations on 31 May 1974 and celebrated the 50th anniversary of that relationship last year. Since 2009, China has remained Malaysia’s largest trading partner for 16 consecutive years.
In 2024, trade between the two countries reached RM484.12 billion, representing 16.8 percent of Malaysia’s total global trade value of RM2.88 trillion. – April 16, 2025