APU Hosts Book Launch and Forum Discussion

In celebration of the 50th Anniversary of Malaysia-China Diplomatic Relations, Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) proudly hosted the book launch of The Story of China and Malaysia and a forum discussion, graced by a proxy of the guest of honour, Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia, YAB Dato' Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

Due to his tight schedule, the DPM was represented by Datuk Muhd Khair Razman Mohamed Annuar, Secretary-General, Ministry of Rural and Regional Development.

Organised by the APU China Students Association (APUCSA) in collaboration with the Malaysia China Welfare Advisory Society (MCWAS), this event took place on August 6, 2024, at APU, located in Technology Park Malaysia.

Distinguished attendees included Datuk Seri Ir Dr Wee Ka Siong, Member of Parliament for Ayer Hitam and President of the Malaysian Chinese Association (MCA); Datuk Chong Sin Woon, Advisor of Malaysia China Welfare Advisory Society; Datuk Fu Ah Kiow, former Deputy Higher Education Minister, and the host, Datuk Parmjit Singh, Co-Founder and CEO of APIIT Education Group and APU.

Reflecting on a 50-Year Friendship

The book launch celebrated the journey of friendship, cooperation, and mutual respect between Malaysia and China over the past fifty years. This milestone reflects the enduring bond and profound relationship that the two countries have cultivated.

In his keynote speech, read by Datuk Muhd Khair Razman, Dato' Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi highlighted the enduring friendship, cooperation, and mutual respect between Malaysia and China over the past five decades.

"Today, we not only celebrate the launch of a book but also commemorate a remarkable journey that began precisely five decades ago. Fifty years is a significant milestone. We have witnessed extraordinary growth in our bilateral relations. What began as a trade relationship valued at less than USD 200 million has now blossomed into a robust economic partnership with bilateral trade exceeding USD 190 billion, a staggering 950-fold increase," said the Deputy Prime Minister.

In his speech, Dato’ Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi commended Datuk Parmjit Singh for his efforts in promoting educational exchanges and collaborations between Malaysia and China. Notably, APU is collaborating with Guilin University of Technology in Guangxi Province to establish the first Sino-Malaysia joint institution in Southwest China, focusing on computing.

“I encourage APIIT, with its expertise in tech and engineering, to consider expanding into TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) programmes. By enhancing the branding of TVET and making it a preferred pathway, APIIT can attract students to both academic and technical programmes, thereby fulfilling the growing demand for skilled talent in our industries,” added DPM.

The Story of China and Malaysia

The highlight of the event was the launch of The Story of China and Malaysia, a noteworthy addition to the "You and Us" series published by China Intercontinental Press. This series explores the historical, cultural, and economic exchanges that have shaped the relationship between China and Malaysia over the past five decades.

Edited by former China ambassadors to Malaysia, Dr Huang Huikang and Mr Hu Zhengyue, the book chronicles the shared history, present cooperation, and future vision of Malaysia-China relations. It stands as a testament to the vibrant and dynamic relationship between the two nations.

Datuk Seri Ir Dr Wee Ka Siong specially acknowledged both editors in his speech: “I would like to take this opportunity to honour the distinguished editors of the book we are launching today, Dr Huang Huikang and Mr Hu Zhengyue. Their contributions to the Malaysia-China relationship have been invaluable, and this book stands as a testament to their dedication and insight."

Forum Discussion: Envisioning the Future

Following the book launch, the event features a thought-provoking forum discussion moderated by APU’s Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Ho Chin Kuan. The panel included Dato’ Dr Rajah Rasiah, Distinguished Professor of Economics at the Asia Europe Institute, University of Malaya; Dr Ngeow Chow Bing, Associate Professor and Director of the Institute of China Studies at the University of Malaya, and Mr Stephen Lai, Chairman of the Malaysia-China (Greater Bay Area) Science-Tech Innovation Alliance.

This forum serves as a platform for engaging dialogue on the future of Malaysia-China relations, examining key areas of cooperation, and exploring opportunities for further strengthening ties. The event facilitated fruitful discussions and insights, paving the way for even greater collaboration and understanding between Malaysia and China.

APU's Commitment to International Collaboration

Datuk Parmjit Singh reaffirmed APU’s dedication to nurturing international understanding and collaboration: “At APU, we take immense pride in fostering an environment that encourages cross-cultural understanding and collaboration. We continuously develop relationships with universities around the globe, and in China, we have numerous partnerships for initiatives such as student exchange, student transfer, and research collaboration."

Datuk Parmjit appreciated the APU China Students Association for working together with the Malaysia-China Welfare Advisory Society to make this event meaningful and impactful in commemorating the 50th anniversary of Malaysia-China Diplomatic Relations: "This is a perfect example of how our diverse student communities can come together to celebrate shared values and build lasting relationships."

For the country, celebrating the golden anniversary is a tribute to the enduring friendship between Malaysia and China. This moment also serves to envision a future brimming with mutual growth, prosperity, and strengthened global connections.