Malaysia, China sign MoU to boost transport cooperation

Malaysia and China have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) establishing a framework for bilateral cooperation covering land, rail, maritime and air transport, as well as the logistics sector.

Key areas covered include the exchange of technical expertise, capacity building, the use of artificial intelligence, green transport and low-carbon infrastructure development, the transport ministry said in a statement.

The MoU was signed by transport minister Loke Siew Fook and his Chinese counterpart, Liu Wei, following a meeting in Beijing yesterday, during which both ministers exchanged views on efforts to expand strategic cooperation in the transport sector and improve the connectivity, efficiency and sustainability of their transport systems.

“The cooperation is expected to strengthen Malaysia’s policymaking capabilities, improve supply chain efficiency, attract Chinese technology investment and reinforce Malaysia’s role as a regional transport hub for Asean,” said the ministry.

Loke also witnessed the signing of a separate MoU on civil aviation safety cooperation between the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia and the Civil Aviation Administration of China which covers the approval of qualifications, certification and oversight of aviation organisations, as well as licensing and oversight of flight operations.

It is expected to strengthen Malaysia’s civil aviation safety standards, reduce duplication in technical processes and facilitate the movement of aeronautical products and services between the two countries.

Loke also paid a courtesy call on National Railway Administration of China administrator Song Xiude, with discussions focusing on rail sector development and regulation, operational safety, capacity building and the use of technology in rail systems.

The ministry said the visit reflected the close and mature relationship between Malaysia and China and the commitment of both countries to translating bilateral ties into practical and mutually beneficial cooperation in transport.