Stepping into Tomorrow

China-Report ASEAN Editorial Department

In 1974， Malaysia became the first ASEAN country to establish diplomatic relations with China， turning the page on a new chapter in the long history of the friendly interactions between the two countries. The past 45 years have witnessed dramatic changes in domestic and international environments while China-Malaysia relations have continued developing and deepening as common aspirations of both peoples for mutual understanding and mutual assistance have remained unchanged and engaging stories have continued emerging.

We have seen China and Malaysia become strategic partners with a high level of mutual trust， respect and support. This friendship derives from equality and mutual trust between the governments of the two countries and continues to be deeply rooted in the hearts of the two peoples. We have seen China and Malaysia become cooperative partners with interests and rewards intertwined. Thanks to comprehensive integration and wide-ranging complementary traits， fruitful collaboration over the years has produced an accumulation of valuable experience in promoting economic growth in the two countries. We have also seen China and Malaysia become close brothers with bonds that grow continuously， fueled by consistent mutual support and help in good times and bad and strengthened by bilateral cultural and educational exchanges.

“Brightness penetrates clouds， illuminating the path leading us through high mountains，” go the opening lyrics of Bahu Kiri （“Left Shoulder” in Malay）， a song released by the Chinese Embassy in Malaysia to celebrate the 45th anniversary of China-Malaysia ties that have withstood the test of time. The May issue of our publication is dedicated to the 45th anniversary of China-Malaysia diplomatic relations and aims to share stories of bilateral cooperation in various fields with our readers， highlighting the warmth and depth of Sino-Malaysian friendship.

It is our sincere wish that China-Malaysia ties will produce more breathtaking blooms as beautiful as the peony， Chinas national flower， and the hibiscus， Malaysias national flower.