PUTRAJAYA, June 20 — Malaysia and China signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) today for the Science and Technology Expertise Exchange Programme, extending the Science, Technology and Innovation Cooperation Agreement first signed in 2013. This MoU aims to facilitate exchange programmes for scientists and researchers, foster partnerships between research institutions, and jointly organise academic programmes and conferences with international participation.

The MoU was signed during Chinese Premier Li Qiang’s official visit to Malaysia, with the exchange of documents witnessed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Premier Li. Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Chang Lih Kang emphasized that this initiative aligns with the New Industrial Master Plan 2030, focusing on innovation-driven economic growth. He highlighted priority areas such as hydrogen, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and space technology, aiming to empower a highly skilled workforce and promote scientific progress. China has been Malaysia’s largest trading partner since 2009, with bilateral trade reaching RM450.84 billion in 2023.