GREATER opportunities lie ahead for ASEAN and China as the 14th Conference on ASEAN-China People-to-People Friendship Organisations commenced with an opening ceremony in Penang today.
Wong Hon Wai, the state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman, who was representing Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, lauded China’s leadership in technology and innovation, which has played a pivotal role in propelling the ASEAN region into the digital age.
He highlighted that through collaboration on initiatives such as the Digital Silk Road, the nations are poised to unlock new opportunities in high-tech industries and innovation-driven sectors.
These fresh prospects encompass exploring unchartered territories in electric vehicles (EVs), renewable energy, high-tech industries, green tech, and other emerging sectors.
Wong noted that this collaboration could serve as a global role model, with the exchange of expertise and resources driving sustainable development and fuelling the growth of emerging industries across the region.
“Our diplomatic ties with China have been a source of strength, characterised by mutual respect and cooperation. These relations have not only opened doors for trade and investment, but have also fostered cultural exchanges and people-to-people interactions, further cementing the bonds of friendship between our nations.
“As we embark on the 14th conference, let us do so with a heart full of optimism. Our journey has thus far been remarkable, and our future holds even greater promise. Let our discussions be vibrant, our collaborations enduring, and our shared commitment to progress unwavering,” Wong said in his speech.
Also present at the conference were Madam Gu Xiu Lian, president of The China-ASEAN Association, Datuk Abdul Majid Abdul Khan, president of the Malaysia-China Friendship Association, respected heads and delegates from ASEAN countries like Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and Malaysia; and also several distinguished guests.
This marked the second time the Malaysia-China Friendship Association played host to the conference, the first in 2014, in Kuala Lumpur.
The last physical meeting occurred in Bandung in 2019, followed by a virtual conference in Vientiane in 2022.
Abdul Majid said the theme of the 14th conference, “Post Covid ASEAN China Cooperation: Strengthening Connectivity, Striving Quality Development,” was indeed timely and relevant.
He acknowledged that the ASEAN-China strategic partnership has indeed deepened their mutual understanding, cooperation and mutual trust.
He also commended China’s significant contribution to ASEAN through projects completed under the Belt Road Initiative (BRI), now in its 10th year.
Moving forward, he believes that the ASEAN China People-to-People Friendship Organisations have much to contribute and achieve through cooperation and collaboration, rather than confrontation.
“We need to continue and strengthen the momentum and drive of our cooperation for mutual benefits stated 17 years ago when the first conference was held in 2006 in Beijing.
“This is so, considering the fast-evolving global challenges stemming from technological advancements, socioeconomic crises to geopolitical tensions. Today we stand on the brink of an exceptional chapter in history. This could also have effects on organisations and platforms such as ours.
“Despite the global challenges of uncertainty, I believe we can turn these challenges into opportunities as ASEAN China relations and cooperation are anchored on a strong foundation, characterised by strong economic partnership, good neighbourly policy and a strong commitment that our region remains stable, peaceful and prosperous,” Abdul Majid said.
Gu extended her gratitude to the Malaysia-China Friendship Association and Penang for hosting the conference, emphasising its role in further bolstering friendship between ASEAN and China.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Siew Chia En