Cooperation With China To Bolster Malaysia's Development: Expert

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 27 (Bernama-Xinhua) -- Malaysia's cooperation with China will play a crucial role as it implements the latest edition of its national development plan, aimed at advancing socio-economic development and strengthening resilience, Xinhua reported, citing an expert.

The 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), Malaysia's latest five-year national development plan, prioritises improving healthcare quality, developing highly skilled human capital through education reforms, and positioning Malaysia as a regional leader in artificial intelligence (AI), digital technology, and renewable energy — all areas where China has already made significant advances and could offer support and knowledge-sharing, Lee Pei May, from the International Islamic University Malaysia, told Xinhua in a recent interview.

"In manufacturing upgrading and green transition, Malaysia and China are exploring cooperation in high-quality production and technical education. China's support in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes is expected to enhance Malaysia's skilled workforce in areas such as AI, electric vehicles, and green energy," she said.

"Malaysia is taking proactive steps to seek new markets and expand existing trade relations, particularly with China, ensuring continued growth in high-value and innovative sectors," she said.

"By leveraging China's expertise in manufacturing, technology, and sustainable practices, Malaysia is advancing its 13MP objectives while building a resilient economy capable of navigating global uncertainties," she said.

The partnership demonstrates how strategic cooperation among developing countries can foster sustainable growth, strengthen regional supply chains, and enhance competitiveness in a complex international landscape, she added.

-- BERNAMA-XINHUA