Chongqing - Malaysian Ambassador to China, H.E. Raja Dato' Nushirwan, expressed his excitement as Malaysia participates in the Western China International Fair for Investment and Trade (WCIFIT) for the first time. Being the guest country of honor at the event is significant for Malaysia, according to the ambassador. 

Ambassador Nushirwan emphasized the importance of the fair, stating that it marks Malaysia's first major exhibition following the visit of their Prime Minister to China a month and a half ago, during which crucial decisions and consensus were reached between the two nations. 

A delegation comprising 34 companies, including six universities, represents Malaysia at the fair, showcasing various products such as cosmetics and food, particularly Malaysian specialties like palm oil, durians, bird's nest, and coffee.

He also highlighted the strong trade relations between Malaysia, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations(ASEAN), and China, noting that ASEAN has been China's largest trading partner for some time. With the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) fully coming into force, the ambassador anticipates that trade between ASEAN and China will reach the $1 trillion level in the next couple of years. Last year, Malaysia experienced a substantial increase in trade with China, surpassing $200 billion for the first time and reaching $203.6 billion.

Improving connectivity, particularly through the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor, in which Chongqing plays a pivotal role, further strengthens the trade links between China, ASEAN, and Malaysia. Ambassador Nushirwan highlighted the interest of many Chinese companies in making Malaysia the logistics hub of Southeast Asia due to its favorable geographic location and well-developed infrastructure, including roads, railway links, and ports.

Moreover, this year, Malaysia is celebrating the 10th anniversary of establishing the "two twin parks" – Kuantan Port in Malaysia and Qinzhou Port in China, which are also part of the corridor. The ambassador believes these developments will strengthen the logistics link between Qinzhou and Malaysia.

Beyond trade, Ambassador Nushirwan emphasized the importance of people-to-people connections and cultural exchange. The presence of six Malaysian universities at WCIFIT provides an opportunity to attract more Chinese students, especially from Chongqing, to study in Malaysia. The ambassador also discussed his visit to educational programs in Chongqing that offer courses in Malaysia's national language, considering it another avenue to strengthen people-to-people links, particularly among the youth.

Lastly, Ambassador Nushirwan encouraged tourism industry players to explore opportunities in Malaysia, especially with the reopening of borders. He invited those who had yet to visit Malaysia to experience the country's attractions.