KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia will not bow to pressure regarding its cooperation and ties with China.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said that while some quarters have raised concerns over the republic's possible exploitation of Malaysia's growing economy, both countries will continue to benefit and learn from one another.
"People have said that Malaysia is a growing economy and that we should not let China abuse Malaysia's privileges or extort from the country.
"However, I said no; on the contrary, we want to benefit from one another, learn from each other, and profit through this engagement because only through this process can we help our people in Malaysia and China.
"We in Malaysia have a neutral stance, working with all countries, and with China, we see Premier Li as a friend with whom we can collaborate to show the world that this is unity.
"Malaysia is your true friend, and to Malaysians, China is our true friend," he said in his speech during the Luncheon of the Malaysia-China Business Community program held today.
In his speech, Anwar also mentioned that the discussion between China Premier Li Qiang and him yesterday extended beyond trade and investment.
He described the discussion as a friendly bilateral exchange, highlighting the respectful attitude of the Chinese leadership.
"I spent the whole day discussing with Li yesterday, and contrary to others' questions and narratives, I sensed the attitude of the Chinese leadership to be very friendly, courteous, full of respect, and understanding of culture and differences.
"Such an attitude is not always portrayed elsewhere as in most of my encounters with many overseas friends. We had hours of discussion; nothing seemed arrogant, condescending, or like an ultimatum. Yes, there are issues, but we discuss them as equal partners and trusted friends.
"Hence, I want to use this opportunity to address the concerns of others and my people in Malaysia. This is a true sign of respect and friendship, which we will continue to cherish between Malaysia and China," he said.
Anwar also touched on concerns raised by international observers, particularly from the West, regarding the enhanced bilateral relationship between Malaysia and China and whether the comprehensive strategic partnership would be detrimental to Malaysia as a smaller nation.
He added that while assurances have been given, the official visit proved otherwise.
"They (the assurances) did not convince them, but I think this visit by Premier Li, my esteemed friend whom I greatly respect, has proven otherwise.
"This is a true sign of respect and friendship, which we will continue to cherish between Malaysia and China.
"But extending beyond that, our concern is about our families, the future for our children, the quality of education, and facilities through TVET, Artificial Intelligence, and digital advancements.
"All these matters were shared in the bilateral discussion, and we realize that there are issues where we can contribute less, and there are issues where the Chinese can contribute more, and we discuss these as close friends."
Malaysia and China inked 14 memoranda of understanding (MoU) yesterday, witnessed by Li and Anwar.
Li is also on a three-day official visit to Malaysia beginning Tuesday, marking his first trip to the country since assuming the post in March last year.