Future looks even brighter as countries celebrate 50 years of pioneering diplomatic relations

As Malaysia and China commemorate 50 years of diplomatic relations, it is an opportune moment to reflect on the journey of this enduring relationship.

Malaysia’s second prime minister, Tun Abdul Razak, made a historic visit to China in May 1974 amid the Cold War. He signed a communique with premier Zhou Enlai on May 31, 1974, formally establishing diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China, making Malaysia the first Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member nation to do so.

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Despite occasional challenges over the past five decades, the Malaysia-China relationship has evolved into a mature and resilient partnership characterized by mutual respect, robust economic collaboration, and vibrant cultural exchanges.

However, Malaysia’s ties with China during the first decade remained cautious due to the prevailing Cold War.

Travel restrictions for ordinary Malaysian citizens to visit China were only lifted after then Malaysian prime minister Mahathir Mohamad’s first visit to China in November 1985, which was a game changer.

Malaysia has also played a crucial role in developing China-ASEAN relations. In July 1991, then Chinese foreign minister Qian Qichen was invited to attend the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting as a guest of the Malaysian government, marking the beginning of China’s engagement with ASEAN. China was accorded full dialogue partner status in July 1996.

Starting in 1991, annual consultations were held alternately in Malaysia and China, serving as a mechanism for both sides to exchange views on bilateral and regional issues. It was renamed strategic consultation in 2010 to reflect the growing importance of Malaysia-China relations within the political security framework of the Asia-Pacific region. In 2013, Malaysia and China upgraded their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

Malaysia’s geographical proximity to China and its pragmatic foreign policy have enabled it to benefit tremendously from China’s reform and opening-up. Malaysia-China trade in 2023 reached RM450.84 billion ($96.24 billion); China has been the largest trading partner of Malaysia for the past 15 years. China also ranks among the top sources of foreign direct investment in Malaysia. Malaysia’s early support for China’s Belt and Road Initiative boosted investments from China.

With a burgeoning middle class and the mutual visa-waiver program, China has become the third most important source of tourists for Malaysia. Geopolitical tension has also made Malaysia a preferred alternative destination for Chinese students seeking overseas education. The significant presence of Chinese nationals in Malaysia certainly could help promote China-Malaysia relations.

Bilateral ties have generally been stable and positive over the years, although it has experienced occasional hiccups. One notable example is the suspension of the East Coast Rail Link, China’s flagship BRI project in Malaysia, in 2018 due to a change in government. However, following amicable negotiations, construction resumed in 2019. The 640km-long rail network connecting the East Coast and West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia is now expected to be completed in 2026.

Malaysia and China have overlapping territorial claims in the South China Sea, which could potentially disrupt their cordial relations. This situation could be exploited amid big power rivalry or by parties with political motives. A minor incident could be exaggerated or distorted by external powers to further their geopolitical interests or politicized by local politicians. Such actions could lead to negative repercussions on national sentiments in both countries, thereby affecting bilateral ties.

Notwithstanding that, both countries have managed the South China Sea dispute rationally through dialogue and negotiation rather than adopting a confrontational approach. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has stated that the South China Sea issue is not “insurmountable” and should not be “that contentious”. He emphasized that while there is no easy solution, Malaysia and China should seek a win-win outcome.

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Over the past 50 years, Malaysia-China relations have matured and become resilient through mutual learning and respect, resolving differences through dialogue and consultations, and seeking win-win cooperation. Both countries have successfully collaborated in navigating regional geopolitical complexities while respecting their respective sovereignty concerns.

Anwar regards China as an important neighbor with “pivotal” ties. He emphasized that the relationship with China should be enhanced. Malaysia’s pragmatic approach to balancing economic interests and strategic independence exemplifies how ASEAN members can engage with China in a turbulent world.

Looking forward, with the leaders of both countries committed to building a China-Malaysia community with a shared future, bilateral relations are expected to reach new heights in the near future.

The author is the president of the Centre for New Inclusive Asia. 

The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.