The Malaysia-China Summit 2024 (MCS 2024) is set to be a monumental event commemorating 50 years of robust bilateral ties between Malaysia and China. Scheduled from 17th to 19th December 2024 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) in Kuala Lumpur, the summit is poised to be the largest trade and investment exposition in the history of the two nations’ relationship.
Organized by Qube Integrated Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. in collaboration with the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), MCS 2024 marks the culmination of year-long programmes under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry’s (MITI) economic pillar. With over 500 exhibitors and a target of 10,000 trade visitors from China, Malaysia, and ASEAN countries, the summit is a platform to foster trade and cultural ties.
His Excellency Dato’ Norman Muhamad, Malaysia’s Ambassador to China, highlighted its significance during a keynote address, “This summit is not just an event; it shines a light for the next 50 years of prosperity between Malaysia and China. The enthusiastic participation of Chinese businesses reflects the deep mutual interest in fostering a future where our nations thrive together.”
Themed Approach to Future Growth
Under the theme “Prosperity Beyond 50”, MCS 2024 focuses on five thematic pillars: Future Tech, Future Knowledge and Experience, Future Mobility and Connectivity, Future Opportunity, and Future Growth. These pillars span cutting-edge technology, professional services, economic zones, manufacturing, and sustainable initiatives.
Richard Teo, Executive Chairman of Qube Integrated Malaysia and Organizing Chairman of MCS 2024, expressed optimism about the overwhelming response, “We have received many strong interests and enquiries to participate in MCS 2024. The response is very encouraging and gaining momentum.”
MATRADE Beijing Trade Commissioner Mr. Niqman Rafaee M. Sahar underscored the summit’s relevance in expanding trade opportunities, “Apart from traditional sectors and manufacturing goods such as Electrical & Electronics (E&E), Chemicals, LNG, and others, there is a vast horizon to explore in areas of connectivity, future growth sectors, renewable, green and sustainable initiatives, and ICT and digital-related services”
China’s Prominent Role in Bilateral Trade
China’s enthusiasm for MCS 2024 is deeply rooted in its long-standing partnership with Malaysia. China has been Malaysia’s largest trading partner for 15 consecutive years, contributing 17.1% of Malaysia’s total global trade. As of February 2024, the total trade volume between the two nations stood at an impressive USD 15.52 billion.
According to Mr. Niqman Rafaee, the summit represents a unique opportunity for Chinese and Malaysian businesses to align their economic priorities, “The doors are wide open for Chinese industries to engage deeply with Malaysian counterparts. The priority sectors of our economy are ripe with opportunity, and through mutual collaboration, we can achieve even more remarkable growth.”
This optimism follows a successful networking session in Beijing earlier this year, which solidified Chinese businesses’ intention to participate actively in the summit.
Strategic Partnerships for Lasting Impact
The summit’s success is further bolstered by strategic partnerships with entities such as the Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau, the National Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia, the Malaysia-China Business Council, and the recently joined Malaysian Chamber of Commerce and Industry in China (MAYCHAM).
Positioned as the final programme celebrating the golden jubilee of Malaysia-China relations, MCS 2024 is not just a milestone but a forward-looking initiative. It aims to provide a platform for industry leaders, policymakers, and entrepreneurs to showcase innovation, explore partnerships, and strengthen economic and cultural bonds.
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