KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 29 (Bernama) -- Malaysia remains committed to strengthening its economic partnership with China under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), Deputy Finance Minister Lim Hui Ying said.
She said BRI has delivered measurable results since its inception, driving trade growth and supporting Malaysia's transformation under the MADANI economy framework, with the partnership continuing to generate tangible benefits for both nations.
"The BRI, which Malaysia has supported since the very beginning, aligns perfectly with this vision (MADANI economy). Over the past 12 years, BRI cooperation has delivered real, measurable results.
"Trade between Malaysia and China grew from RM181 billion in 2012 to RM484 billion in 2024, with China remaining our largest trading partner," she said in her speech at the Parallel Financial Street Forum here today.
She highlighted that major infrastructure projects such as the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL), spanning 665 kilometres, stand as key examples of how BRI cooperation creates long-term economic benefits.
"Businesses in manufacturing, logistics and industrial parks along the corridor will gain access to new markets, talent and investment opportunities," she said.
Moving forward, Lim said Malaysia aims to expand cooperation in high-value industries including electronics, semiconductors, automotive and aerospace.
"Malaysia is well-positioned to serve as both a production hub and a springboard into global markets.
"Under the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), Malaysia and China have also harmonised financial service rules, making cooperation more efficient and transparent," she said.
Lim added that growing opportunities also exist in green finance, renewable energy and digital innovation, where Malaysia and China can combine expertise and investment.
She said that BRI offers a strong platform to scale up investment in solar panels, electric vehicles, battery storage and clean transport infrastructure, in which Chinese companies already play an active role in Malaysia's renewable energy ecosystem, bringing advanced technologies that support local growth.
--BERNAMA
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