T.C.Goh (second from left), accompanied by Lin Jiaquan (first from left) and witnessed by Ouyang Yujing (second from right), presents a souvenir to Yao Linnan (first from right), the head of the China Overseas Chinese Federation’s “Charming China” Art Troupe.
(Kuala Lumpur, 13th) – In celebration of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China, the “Charming China: Gathering in Kuala Lumpur” cultural grand performance was grandly held tonight.
Tan Sri T.C.Goh, President of the Federation of Chinese Associations Malaysia (Huazong), stated at the event that although this year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China, the two countries have shared a blood-bound relationship for millennia. Whether it was Zheng He’s expeditions to the Western seas centuries ago, the mass migration of Chinese ancestors to Malaya, or the formal establishment of diplomatic relations 50 years ago, Malaysia and China have been intertwined for centuries and remain closely connected through generations.
“In other words, the half-century of diplomatic relations is merely a modern new starting point in the millennia-long friendship between the two countries. This relationship marks the establishment of diplomatic ties between Malaysia’s post-colonial independent government and the new Chinese government, which holds significant international importance.”
He explained that the significant international importance stems from 50 years ago when Malaysia’s then-Prime Minister Tun Razak led the country, which had been independent for 17 years, on a pioneering ice-breaking journey during the Cold War. This culminated in the signing of a joint communiqué in Beijing with China’s then-Premier Zhou Enlai, announcing the formal establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
“Another significant international aspect is that Malaysia was one of the first ASEAN countries to establish diplomatic relations with China at that time. This move opened the door to friendly relations between ASEAN and China, leading to the establishment of regional diplomatic relations between China and various ASEAN countries.”
Hopes for More Positive Outcomes from Malaysia-China Leadership Meetings
He mentioned that from the pioneering ice-breaking journey of that time to the current “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” Malaysia and China have steadily progressed through the changing tides of international affairs. He also warmly welcomed the upcoming visit of China’s Premier Li Qiang to Malaysia and hoped that this visit would positively impact the relationship between the two countries.
He expressed hope that after the meeting between the leaders of the two countries, more positive news would be announced. This includes measures such as extending the visa-free entry period for Malaysian citizens to China to 30 days, as mentioned by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid during his visit to China last month. He also urged the Malaysian government to reciprocate by extending the visa-free entry period for Chinese citizens to Malaysia until the end of next year.
Additionally, he expressed gratitude to all the organizers and attendees for their enthusiastic participation, coming together to witness this momentous occasion.
Ouyang Yujing: The People of Malaysia and China Benefit from the Friendship
Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia, Ouyang Yujing, stated that Malaysia and China are neighboring countries separated by a sea. Over the past half-century since the establishment of diplomatic relations, the relationship between the two countries has consistently been among the forefront of regional nations.
“The friendship between Malaysia and China and the construction of the Malaysia-China Community with a Shared Future are increasingly bringing tangible benefits to the peoples of both countries. The economic and trade relations between the two nations continue to develop, with major cooperation projects and new areas of collaboration constantly deepening. Malaysia and China will continue to achieve cooperative成果, benefit their peoples, and jointly create the next brilliant 50 years.”
The event was organized by the China Overseas Chinese Federation (China Qiaolian) and the Chinese Embassy in Malaysia, with the Federation of Chinese Associations Malaysia (Huazong) as the host and co-organized the Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia (ACCCIM), United Chinese School Committees’ Association of Malaysia, The United Chinese School Teachers’ Association of Malaysia, Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce, Malaysia Jiangsu Entrepreneurs Business Association and various other organizations. Notable attendees included Chinese Embassy in Malaysia Minister Counsellor Zheng Xuefang, Counsellor Ma Cuihong, Huazong Deputy President Dato’ Lim Kah Chuan, Huazong Vice Presidents Datuk Lin Guangyou and Huang Jundang, China Qiaolian’s Organization and Personnel Department Minister Yao Linnan, Huazong Honorary Permanent Advisor and President of the Federation of Chinese Associations Malaysia Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Lim Hock San, Huazong Honorary Permanent Advisor Tan Sri Tang Yeam Soon, Datuk Luo Liren, the Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia President Tan Sri Low Kian Chuan, United Chinese School Committees’ Association of Malaysia Chairman Tan Tai Kim, The United Chinese School Teachers’ Association of Malaysia Chairman Cheah Lek Aee, The Federation of Hainan Association Malaysia President Dato Lim Chiew Ah, Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce President Lu Guoxiang, and representatives from various organizations.
(Sources : Sin Chiew Daily)
President Sun Jianwei (third from right) poses for a photo with representatives from the organizing and co-organizing units, as well as guests.
A total of 70 representatives from our association, along with their families and colleagues, gathered at the theater of the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre to participate in this wonderful cultural performance. In addition to the Chinese audience, the event also attracted enthusiastic participation from many Malaysian Malays and Indians. The venue, which can accommodate 2,000 people, was nearly full with almost no empty seats.
