Dialogue on the international image innovation of the Communist Party of China was held on April 23, 2024. Photo: China International Communications Group

 China and Malaysia can build a longer-lasting friendship by promoting cooperation and cultural exchanges while enhancing understanding despite the South China Sea issue, a Malaysian official said during a dialogue on the international image innovation of the Communist Party of China on Tuesday.

Executive Secretary of the UMNO Malaysia Election Department Mohammad Faisal Bin Abu Suaib Khan told the Global Times that despite the differences between China and Malaysia over the South China Sea, the two countries still want to focus on promoting cooperation, adding that "everything can be put on the table and discussed."

Khan said that the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative has built regional connectivity, not only from east to west but also from north to south. People can reach Singapore from Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia from the south side, and can also travel directly to Kunming in Southwest China's Yunnan Province. He also raised the hope that one day, people will be able to take the high-speed train to Bali instead of having to fly. 

On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Malaysia, Khan said that the friendship between the two countries should last longer than just 50 years, and continue to regrow and uphold new developments in the future.

Malaysia needs the support of Chinese investment, not just cooperation in transportation, Khan said during the meeting. He told the Global Times that a senior official will visit China next month to discuss new ideas and collaboration between the two countries.

Malaysia, as a country at the heart of Southeast Asia, can connect different countries including Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Thailand, while playing a role as a partner to China in fostering ties in Southeast Asia, as well as creating a gateway for Muslim countries.

Most countries wish to avoid conflict, so there is a desire "for cooperation, well-being, and growing together," Khan said. 

He said during the meeting that Malaysia has specialized institutions in the Pearl River Delta region that can help them enhance cooperation and exchanges with China, and they can use these institutions to connect with Muslim communities around the world, to build opportunities for cooperation. 

Khan also said Malaysia wants to promote itself to Chinese people and tell the real story of China to Malaysians.
 
Minister of Foreign Affairs of Malaysia Dato' Seri Utama Haji Mohamad bin Haji Hasan will be visiting China from Tuesday to Thursday, according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry.