KUALA LUMPUR, June 21 (Bernama) -- The move by the Unity Government to solidify the strategic relations between Malaysia and China has been described as an 'exceptional’ effort.
Research Fellow at the Institute of Malaysian and International Studies (IKMAS), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Dr Muhamad Azwan Abd Rahman, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had elevated the longstanding relationship established 50 years ago to a 'strategically close' level, ensuring Malaysia's position on the international stage, among other things, stressing on peaceful coexistence.
"Considering the realities of international politics, this living together peacefully is crucial. It is a relationship that can bring about benefits or positive values to the people," he said when appearing as a guest on Bernama TV's programme 'Apa Khabar Malaysia', here today.
Muhamad Azwan stated that by placing China in a close strategic relationship, the government ensures Malaysia's position alongside countries with similar interests, particularly in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the Global Civilisation Initiative (GCI).
He said that through the BRI, the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) project will benefit the people in Kelantan, Terengganu and Pahang by increasing income and job offerings.
"It is essential to establish a cooperation among Malaysia, China and third-party sector namely the Civil Society Organisations (CSOs)," he said, adding that state governments should play a role in highlighting the benefits of this cooperation to the communities in the relevant areas.
On Malaysia's intention to join the intergovernmental organisation BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) Muhamad Azwan lauded it as a smart decision by the prime minister.
"We are a dignified and independent nation, and BRICS is one of the processes to restore Eastern globalisation," he said, noting that Anwar has explained that he no longer wants to see Western powers controlling Malaysia.
The two countries established diplomatic relations following the signing of the Joint Communiqué by Malaysia's second Prime Minister, Tun Abdul Razak Hussein, and then Chinese Premier Chou En Lai, on May 31, 1974.
-- BERNAMA
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