PM reaffirms deep ties with China in state banquet honouring Xi Jinping

In a wide-ranging speech, Anwar lauded Xi’s return visit to Malaysia after more than a decade, describing it as a reaffirmation of a relationship “grounded in respect, enriched by history and sustained by a shared sense of purpose.”

“Malaysia and China have long stood shoulder to shoulder – in moments of triumph and times of trial,” Anwar said in front of an audience of dignitaries, government officials, and invited guests.

“Ours is a relationship forged in understanding and sustained by the belief that we go further when we walk together.”

Xi’s visit comes as both nations mark over 50 years of diplomatic ties. China remains Malaysia’s largest trading partner, with economic cooperation spanning infrastructure, energy, and innovation. Yet, Anwar stressed that the bilateral relationship transcends trade figures.

“The true strength of this relationship lies beyond statistics. It rests on a profound understanding – that prosperity, to endure, must be shared; and that trust, once cultivated, must be tended with care,” he said.

Anwar also voiced strong support for China’s major global initiatives under Xi’s leadership, including the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the Global Development Initiative (GDI), and the Global Security Initiative (GSI). He described them as frameworks for cooperation at a time when multilateralism is under strain.

“The world yearns for steadiness, reliability and purpose. We see this in China’s conduct. Malaysia acknowledges such steadiness… and is conscious of the hope it may continue to offer,” Anwar said.

He added that trade is not a contest of winners and losers, but a shared endeavour.

Malaysia, he stressed, would continue to be a “principled friend” to China, favouring cooperation over confrontation and dialogue over rivalry.

The visit is widely seen as a diplomatic milestone, reinforcing China’s growing role in Southeast Asia and Malaysia’s strategic position as a key partner in Beijing’s regional ambitions.