Chiew Choon Man: Steady Deepening of Malaysia-China Technology Cooperation Aids Malaysia's Economic Modernization

(Miri, 14th) Miri MP Chiew Choon Man stated that the technological cooperation between Malaysia and China is becoming increasingly robust, especially under the framework of the "Belt and Road" initiative. The two sides have engaged in extensive cooperation in six major fields: artificial intelligence, aerospace technology, blockchain, advanced materials, biotechnology, and renewable energy, showcasing strong potential and prospects for development.

After participating in the second "Belt and Road" Technology Exchange Conference recently, Chiew Choon Man continued to attend a bilateral meeting between the Malaysian Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation and the Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology, and expressed satisfaction with the results of the meeting. He noted that since the first technology cooperation agreement was signed during Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Malaysia in 2013, the cooperation has continuously expanded to various high-tech fields.

"With the latest memorandum of understanding on technology cooperation to be signed by our Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar and Chinese Premier Li Qiang in 2024, bilateral technology cooperation is moving towards a new stage. As of now, more than 300 joint research projects have been proposed, demonstrating the high regard placed on this cooperation by the scientific communities of both countries."

He revealed that during the meeting, both parties confirmed once again to accelerate work in joint laboratory plans, talent exchange, cross-border research, and academic exchange, particularly providing opportunities for young scholars to participate in placements at government agencies and higher education institutions. At this stage, many universities and research institutions in Malaysia and China have engaged in substantial cooperation and established the "Malaysia-China Joint Laboratory Plan" to pave the way for scientific and technological R&D, technology transfer, capacity building, and commercialization of research outcomes.

"Since 2009, China has been Malaysia's largest trading partner, accounting for 16.8% of our total foreign trade in 2023. Now, the two sides are enhancing cooperation in key areas such as digital economy, green economy, artificial intelligence, aerospace technology, and vaccine development, aligning with Malaysia's long-term economic modernization needs."

He emphasized that Malaysia welcomes China's open and cooperative attitude in the technological field and will continue to work with China in the future to promote strategic cooperation under the guidance of the "Belt and Road" innovation action plan to achieve mutual benefit and win-win goals.

Chiew Choon Man admitted that this trip has been fruitful, particularly touched by a statement from Chinese technologists: "Even if we have to sell everything, we must do research work well because technological progress is crucial for human society to become wealthier." He said this reflects China's steadfast commitment to technological innovation, which is also worth emulating in Malaysia, making technological innovation an essential engine for national progress and people’s well-being.

"Technology is the core of a country's future development. Malaysia must unwaveringly increase investment, strengthen technological capabilities, and build a stronger and more competitive future."