KUALA LUMPUR, December 21 — Transport Minister Anthony Loke has emphasized that an expanded logistics network, encompassing land and sea transport, will significantly enhance trade relations between Malaysia and China, particularly with Chongqing. Loke highlighted the vital roles Malaysia and China play as logistics hubs for each other and other ASEAN countries. Speaking at the China (Chongqing)-Malaysia International Land-Sea Trade Regional Cooperation and Exchange Conference, he stressed the importance of a well-equipped logistics system to facilitate faster regional trade.
Chongqing expressed interest not only in Malaysian durians but also in palm oil for health and food purposes. Loke sees Chongqing as a crucial market, especially considering that 50% of its population resides in the western part of China. He urged the full utilization of Malaysia’s logistics strength to boost exports to Chongqing. Additionally, Malaysia is exploring a railway connection from Malaysia to Laos for cargo goods, further expanding trade possibilities.
Loke also mentioned the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore High-Speed Rail (KL-Singapore HSR) project, urging its expedited assessment and implementation. He proposed planning another high-speed rail project connecting Kuala Lumpur and the northern part of Peninsular Malaysia to ensure seamless north-south connectivity. Loke emphasized the significance of modern high-speed rail systems, particularly in the context of the Singapore-Kunming Rail Link (SKRL), to strengthen connections with China and ASEAN countries, fostering mutual benefits for all parties involved.
