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SEPANG, 15 April 2025 – Chinese President Xi Jinping has officially arrived in Malaysia for a highly anticipated three-day state visit, marking a significant milestone in Malaysia-China diplomatic ties. His arrival at the Bunga Raya Complex, KLIA at 6.30pm was met with full ceremonial honours and a warm welcome from Malaysian dignitaries.
This marks President Xi’s second visit to Malaysia since 2013. He was received by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, Transport Minister Anthony Loke, and Chinese Ambassador Ouyang Yujing.
A guard of honour made up of 28 personnel from the Royal Ranger Regiment (Istiadat) led by Lt. Mohamad Nafis Norshid stood at attention as Xi inspected the line. The ceremony also featured vibrant cultural performances—Arjunasukma Academy impressed the audience with traditional Malay, Chinese, and Indian drums, while a 32-member marching band from SMJK Yu Hua performed the classic folk tune Lenggang Kangkung.
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According to Wisma Putra, Xi will be granted a royal audience with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Sultan Ibrahim, at Istana Negara. The King will also host a state banquet in honour of the visiting leader. Prime Minister Anwar will further host an official dinner at the Seri Perdana Complex in Putrajaya.
The visit underscores 50 years of Malaysia-China diplomatic relations, first established in 1974. It also follows Xi’s ongoing diplomatic tour, which includes stops in Vietnam and Cambodia.
Malaysia and China upgraded their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2013. As of 2024, China continues to be Malaysia’s top trading partner for the 16th consecutive year, with trade valued at RM484.12 billion—16.8% of Malaysia’s total trade.
As ASEAN Chair and Country Coordinator for ASEAN-China Dialogue Relations, Malaysia is poised to lead efforts to deepen regional ties through dialogue and shared development.
This visit is not just diplomatic formality—it signals Malaysia’s continued role as a trusted friend and strategic partner to China in the region. — Bernama