KUALA LUMPUR, April 20 - Economic return factors and the sustainability of support systems form a strong foundation for strengthening strategic relations between Malaysia and China, particularly in efforts to accelerate the country's economic transformation.
University of Malaya (UM) Security Strategy and International Relations Analyst, Collins Ching Yew Keat, stated that cooperation between the two countries is expected to invigorate critical economic sectors such as the digital economy, green economy, and energy transition.
"Currently, efforts to drive economic transformation involve various critical sectors, including the digital economy, green economy, semiconductors, artificial intelligence (AI), and critical minerals like rare earths.
"The willingness of Beijing to support technology and expertise in rare earth processing, as well as enhancing connectivity systems like the Pan Asia Railway, also benefits the country," he said.
He made these remarks after appearing as a guest on the Selamat Pagi Malaysia program broadcast from Angkasapuri, today.
Further commenting, Collins noted that development focus is now shifting towards new sectors such as space technology, compared to conventional natural resources like palm oil, petroleum, and gas.
He emphasized that strategic cooperation with China opens up greater opportunities for Malaysia to access expertise, investment, and technological support systems to boost the country's economy towards a more sustainable and competitive global standing.
In related developments, he also stressed the importance of maintaining a mutually respectful relationship between Malaysia and China that emphasizes principles of sovereignty and shared interests.
"Among other factors we need to safeguard is ensuring national interests, especially in disputes in the South China Sea and others, remain protected.
"We welcome all intentions to maintain stability and peace in all disputed areas; however, overall, we must ensure that this relationship remains one of mutual respect while upholding territorial rights and sovereignty," he stated.