TIANJIN, 17 October 2026, Malaysia and China are strengthening bilateral cooperation across technical and vocational education and training (TVET), advanced technology, investment, security and disaster management following Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi’s five-day working visit to China.
The visit, held from October 12 to 16, also reinforced commitments to collaborate in artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductors, electric vehicles (EVs), nuclear technology and the digital economy under the Malaysia-China Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
A major priority is the development of the Malaysia-China Institute (MCI) to enhance Malaysia’s TVET capabilities, particularly in smart manufacturing, robotics, EVs and industrial digitalisation. The initiative aims to facilitate technology transfer and strengthen industry-relevant skills.
Ahmad Zahid, who is also Rural and Regional Development Minister and chairman of the National TVET Council, emphasised the need to align vocational education with industry requirements through the TVET 2.0 approach.
Speaking at the 2026 World Vocational and Technical Education Development Conference in Tianjin on October 16, he called for greater international collaboration in skills development, technology exposure and the establishment of common training standards.
Malaysia also proposed creating a World TVET Council to encourage international partnerships and facilitate the exchange of expertise, with China suggested as its permanent secretariat or host.
Other proposals included mutual recognition of qualifications, cross-border accreditation and expanded practical training programmes, including initiatives to develop vocational trainers.
During a meeting with Chinese Vice-Premier Ding Xuexiang in Beijing on October 15, Ahmad Zahid discussed strengthening trade, investment and technological ties. Both sides also considered renewing the Investment Guarantee Agreement to improve investment protection.
Malaysia further expressed its willingness to facilitate stronger economic links between ASEAN, China and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), including through expanded trade and investment cooperation and the use of the renminbi in relevant transactions.
Security cooperation was another key focus. In talks with Chinese State Councillor and Minister of Public Security Wang Xiaohong on October 13, Ahmad Zahid discussed intelligence sharing and joint efforts to tackle transnational crime, particularly online job scams and cybercrime.
The two sides also explored finalising a security memorandum of understanding for potential signing during Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s planned visit to Shenzhen for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Meeting in November. Discussions also covered the possible resumption of extradition treaty negotiations and stronger mutual legal assistance.
In disaster management, Malaysia proposed collaboration involving satellite monitoring, AI-powered early warning systems and technical exchanges to strengthen preparedness for climate-related emergencies.
The visit also included discussions with China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) on nuclear technology, research and industrial development. Proposed initiatives included opportunities for Malaysian students to pursue relevant studies in China before receiving specialised training at CNNC facilities, alongside efforts to prepare local companies for participation in the nuclear industry’s supply chain.
The visit concluded with a renewed commitment to deepen Malaysia-China relations through practical cooperation, economic partnerships and support for Malaysia’s full participation in BRICS.
Both countries also reaffirmed their aspiration to build a high-level strategic community with a shared future, aimed at supporting mutual prosperity and regional stability.
-BERNAMA
