KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia and China have taken a significant step to deepen their economic cooperation, signing several memoranda of understanding (MOUs) that aim to enhance trade in services, industrial cooperation, and technology exchanges, particularly in the fields of artificial intelligence (AI) and the digital economy. The signing ceremony, which took place on Wednesday, was witnessed by Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and visiting Chinese President Xi Jinping.
The MOUs focus on various critical sectors, including trade in services, industrial parks, and technological advancements. Notably, the two countries have committed to upgrading the “Two Countries, Twin Parks” initiative, which includes the Malaysia-China Kuantan Industrial Park and the China-Malaysia Qinzhou Industrial Park. These parks have already become models for cross-border industrial cooperation, fostering business growth and increasing investment flows.
Other MOUs signed during the event include agreements between the Digital Ministry of Malaysia and China’s National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), focusing on AI collaboration and digital economy advancements. These agreements reflect both countries’ commitment to enhancing their technological and digital capabilities, driving innovation, and addressing global challenges in the technology sector.
Additionally, a separate MOU was signed between the State Administration for Market Regulation of China and Malaysia’s Department of Standards to promote cooperation in standardisation efforts. This will allow both nations to harmonise standards, enhancing the quality of goods and services, and improving bilateral trade.
The ceremony was held at the Seri Perdana Complex in Putrajaya, coinciding with President Xi Jinping’s three-day state visit to Malaysia. The MOUs were exchanged by high-ranking officials from both nations, including Malaysia’s Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz and China’s Minister of Commerce Wang Wengtao.
This new wave of agreements comes as both countries continue to seek stronger trade and investment linkages, with a particular emphasis on innovation and sustainability in key industries. The partnership is expected to bring mutual benefits, positioning both Malaysia and China as leaders in regional economic and technological development.
