China-Malaysia ties strengthen under BRI framework with focus on clean energy and digital economy：MayCham China chairman

Core Insights - The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has entered a new phase of cooperation between China and Malaysia, focusing on infrastructure, digital economy, and green transformation, with significant potential for future collaboration [1] - In 2024, bilateral trade between China and Malaysia surpassed 1.5 trillion yuan ($212 billion), with China being Malaysia's largest trading partner for over a decade [2] - The "Two Countries, Twin Parks" model, featuring the Kuantan and Qinzhou Industrial Parks, is highlighted as a successful example of bilateral industrial collaboration [3] Infrastructure Development - The East Coast Rail Link, a flagship BRI project, is nearing completion and is expected to be operational by late 2026 or early 2027, with hopes for more large-scale infrastructure projects in Malaysia [4] - Ongoing large-scale projects in Penang, including a new international airport, are actively involving Chinese enterprises, indicating a strong foundation for infrastructure cooperation [5] New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) and Digital Economy - NEVs are identified as a key area for future cooperation, with China being a leader in NEV production and Malaysia having a mature automotive industry, creating a complementary industrial ecosystem [6] - Malaysian market conditions are favorable for absorbing Chinese technologies and production capacity, positioning Malaysia as a launchpad for Chinese NEV brands in Southeast Asia [7] Trade and Economic Outlook - Despite geopolitical uncertainties affecting global trade, Malaysia's youthful demographics and rising purchasing power provide strong internal demand [8] - The complementary nature of industries between China and Malaysia can help ASEAN economies mitigate external volatility and support stable long-term growth [9] SME Cooperation and Bilateral Relations - The Malaysian Chamber of Commerce has facilitated bilateral exchange programs to connect Chinese companies with the Malaysian market, enhancing practical BRI cooperation [10][11]