22-05-2025
M'sia-China event presents potential business linkups
(From left) Low, Li, Teo, Zheng and Abdul Majid launching CSITE 2025. — ONG SOON HIN/The Star
China Entrepreneurs Association in Malaysia (PUCM) continues to foster strong Malaysia-China relations by promoting economic growth and cross-cultural exchange between the nations.
PUCM president Datuk Keith Li said one of the association's achievements was the China Smart Industry Trade Exhibition (CSITE) promoting business links between Malaysia and China.
'Established in 2015, PUCM was started with just seven founding members and has grown into a dynamic association representing nearly 200 member companies.
'These range from those in artificial intelligence (AI) and telecommunications to construction and energy sectors.
'One of our achievements is CSITE which spotlights breakthroughs in AI, drone technology and smart city solutions.
'This links Chinese innovation with Malaysian opportunities,' Li said in his opening speech during the association's 10th anniversary celebration in Kuala Lumpur.
The event also saw the launch of CSITE 2025, which featured 105 booths mainly showcasing AI, digital technology and education.
Chinese Embassy minister Zheng Xuefang described Malaysia as an emerging player in AI, with a focus on leveraging technology for economic growth and regional competitiveness.
'As China is a global AI powerhouse, our two countries can benefit from collaboration in this area.
'CSITE is a great platform for Chinese and Malaysian companies to exchange views and share insights on the latest developments,' he said.
Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching said China remained Malaysia's largest trading partner for 16 consecutive years, with bilateral trade reaching RM16.1bil as of March this year.
'In addition to growing trade and investment links, Malaysian citizens can now enjoy visa-free entry to China for a cumulative stay of up to 90 days over a period of six months.
'With 2026 being billed as Visit Malaysia Year, we look forward to welcoming even more tourists from China and around the world.
'In 2024, tourist arrivals from China to Malaysia rose to 3.7 million, marking an impressive increase of 130.9% year-on-year,' she added.
Present during the event were Malaysia-China Business Council chairman Senator Tan Sri Low Kian Chuan, Malaysia-China Friendship Association president Datuk Abdul Majid Khan, China Silk Road Group chairman Dr Yan Lijin and Federation of Malaysia Chinese Commerce Association president Datuk Lum Kim Soong.
Abdul Majid, Yan and Lum are also PUCM honorary advisors.
