Chinese President Xi Jinping Arrives in Malaysia for Three-Day State Visit

World

Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Malaysia on Tuesday for a three-day state visit, marking a significant moment in the strong ties between the two nations. The aircraft carrying Xi and his delegation landed at the Bunga Raya Complex, Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) at approximately 6:48 PM.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, Transport Minister Anthony Loke, and Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia Ouyang Yujing were present to greet Xi’s delegation.

Xi’s arrival was celebrated with a cultural performance that showcased a blend of traditional Malay, Chinese, and Indian drum rhythms, courtesy of the Arjunasukma Academy from Gombak. Additionally, a 32-member marching band from Sekolah Menengah Jenis Kebangsaan Yu Hua, Kajang performed iconic songs including "Lenggang Kangkung" and "Sejahtera Malaysia".

The visit, which runs from April 15 to 17, was made at the invitation of His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia. Xi’s first engagement was a state welcoming ceremony, followed by a private audience with Sultan Ibrahim at Istana Negara. The King will also host a state banquet in Xi’s honor.

Later, Xi, accompanied by senior officials, will meet with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to discuss further bilateral cooperation and exchange views on regional and international issues. The two leaders are set to witness the exchange of Memoranda of Understanding, Agreements, and Notes between Malaysia and China.

Anwar will also host an official dinner at Seri Perdana Complex in Putrajaya in Xi’s honor.

This marks Xi's first state visit in 2025, following previous trips to Vietnam and Cambodia. His last visit to Malaysia took place in 2013, when both countries elevated their diplomatic relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

China remains Malaysia’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade valued at RM484.12 billion in 2024, representing 16.8% of Malaysia's total global trade. This year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations, which began on May 31, 1974.

As Chair of ASEAN and the Country Coordinator for ASEAN-China Dialogue Relations, Malaysia remains committed to strengthening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with China through dialogue, mutual trust, and initiatives that bring tangible benefits to both ASEAN and China.