Malaysia and China Political Dialogue - Case Study Example

Memorandum The Chairman of China The Chairman of Malaysia RE: China-Malaysia relation May 11, Summary Bilateral relations havea fundamental contribution towards the political and economic success of a nation besides other sectors. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Malaysia recognizes the central role of bilateral diplomacy with other countries. The Malaysian economy continues to resonate because of the heightened bilateral relations that it has with other countries. There are diverse fields of cooperation with other countries including education and culture. Besides, the ministry of foreign affairs engages in bilateral cooperation in fields such as tourism, science and technology. By March 2012, there were 106 missions planned by the ministry of foreign affairs to different embassies, high commissions, UN permanent representatives, ASEAN countries and consulate offices, globally. That proves the administration’s dedication to appreciate the Malaysian bilateral diplomatic relations with countries in both developed and developing countries. The diplomatic relations present opportunities to strengthen socio-economic progress of the country by promoting investment in trade, foreign investments and tourism. The key focus of bilateral diplomacy promoted by the ministry of foreign affairs, Malaysia is to ensure sound political associations and socio-economic progress. The relations also aim to promote and implement infrastructure development. It works to promote peace and stability in the country and with other nations (Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Malaysia 1). Background The year 2014 was referred to as the Malaysian-China Friendship Year, being the 40th year of appreciable bilateral relations between the two countries since 1974. Relations between the two countries have been termed as great. It is noteworthy that economic partnerships remain the central factors that promote the relationship since 2008. The China-Malaysia diplomatic tie is a model relationship that most countries in Asia should strive to emulate. The importance of Malaysia-China relationship is evident from the assurance by China’s foreign ministry’s spokesperson, Mr. Qin Gang during his May 28, 2014 press conference (Ministry of Foreign Affairs of People’s Republic of China 1). Gang stated that China values its bilateral relations with Malaysia as one of its trading partners in the ASEAN community. He further restated that China is equally valuable to Malaysia. Despite marking the 40th year continued commitment to improving diplomatic ties between the two countries, there is necessity to address diverse constraints to the relations. In case of unstable bilateral relations, there is too much in terms of economic progress that might be at stake. The well-performing economic partnership between the countries may be at risk. The great tourism between the two countries may be at risk of deterioration. That further informs the need to work toward ensuring a great partnership between the two countries. So far, there is appreciable progress that the Malaysian and Chinese governments have realized with reference to ensuring strong bilateral diplomatic relations. Challenges to the relationship, however, exist that must be addressed to strengthen the ties. Beijing’s criticism of the manner in which Malaysia handled the missing MH370 that had 154 Chinese on board is among the challenges that threaten the strong ties that have existed for 40 years. Relations after the MH370 incidence Based on diverse media reports, relations between Malaysia and y seemed threatened by alleged claims by Chinese citizens demanding stern actions on the Malaysian administration because of perceive incompetence that caused the accident. In a report that appeared on The World Post on May 20, 2014, Wagner and Cafiero hinted allegations of failure of Purtrajaya to uphold transparency about the incidence (1). According to the report, Chinese officials directed angry rhetoric towards their Malaysian counterparts in a manner that threatened to jeopardize the long-standing and exceptional bilateral relations experienced between the two countries. To counter the allegations by angry Chinese families, Huang Huikang who serves as China’s ambassador to Malaysia refuted the claims. In his statement and response to media allegation, Huikang refuted the ill-motived allegations as non-representative of the Chinese government (Ng and Lee 1) Necessity to uphold long-standing and unique bilateral relationship Remarkably, Malaysia shares an exceptionally superb relationship with your country. The relationship has its origin from the great historic sites as informed by ethnic and cultural ties between citizens of the two countries. Besides, there is a great potential of progress that emanates from the economic relations between the two countries. Their diplomatic relations has long been existent since 1974. Malaysia is notably the single most nation that supported your country and remains strong as its ally during the Mao Era. Furthermore, Malaysia remains the foremost Southeast Asian nation that identified China when it was facing isolation in 1974, under the leadership of Abdul Razak. Strong Economic Partnership Malaysia remains among the greatest trading associates to your country with a de facto partnership. Notably, Malaysia is the largest trading partner to China in the ASEAN. In addition, Malaysia’s trade with China rates third after Japan and S. Korea throughout the Asian region. Strong cultural ties among the populations promote improvement in trade between the two countries. In 2013, trade between the two countries recorded an estimate of $106 billion. Furthermore, the Malaysian appreciates the fact the China is the core destination of exports from the country. The primary exports of Malaysia to your country include crude rubber and palm oil that are equally vital to the improvement of China’s economic progress. According to reports on the CNN by Boykoff and Leong (1), trade between Malaysia and China improved by an appreciable 12.5% in 2013. That represented a record improvement of $ 63.4 billion in 2013. In addition, the tourism sectors between Malaysia and your country improved remarkably. There were 1.79 million visitors to Malaysia from your country in 2013, representing an improvement of 14.9% in relation to the previous year. Currently, the two countries have a set target of $160 billion in trade volume by 2017 (Bower and Nguyen 1). There is an increasing investment of Malaysian companies in China. The foreign direct investment recorded for Malaysian firms, in China attained $7 billion. Investments of Chinese firms in Malaysia are equally improving. Interestingly, Kuala Lumpu and Beijing have had tremendous progress in initiating projects in the two countries. The China-Malaysia Qinzhou Industrial Park (CMQIP) The flagship project is among the most celebrated success in reference to the promoting trade and economic progress (Yunus 1). It is a symbol of the great relationship between the two countries and their dedication towards the realization of industrial development. The flagship project is located on a 55km2 area planned for a population of 500,000. The Malaysian administration appreciates the efforts of your government to ensure the success of the four divisions of the flagship project. Malaysia welcomes investments that will be set at the park’s industrial zone and forecasts on strategic planning of emerging industries in the zone. The research and development zone will serve to improve technological exchange in diverse areas of the economy. Technological exchange promoted by research and development are critical to improving advancements in the fields of biotechnology, marine science and communication. Discovery of new materials will encourage the use of new materials in areas such as manufacturing. In addition to in sister program in China, the Malaysia-China Kuantan Industrial Park, the flagship project serves to improve the relations between the two countries (Li 1) . Security Cooperation through the Peace and Friendship 2014 Security is a fundamental factor that enhances economic stability in every country and, consequently, promotes development. The Malaysian government is prides in its recently launched peace cooperation aimed between MAF and PLA. The Peace and Friendship 2014, signed in October 2013 is among the best strategies by the two administrations to improve security. The enhanced collaboration between the armed forces of the two countries would be effective to foster law enforcement and safety of citizens. The initiative was instrumental in enhancing response to the MH370 tragedy that involved the death of 154 Chinese through a joint operation undertaken by 22 personnel from MAF and their 21 counterparts from PLA (Parameswaran 1). Address possible shocks that may emerge from trade The disappearance of the Malaysia Airlines was one of the tragic events that risked the strong bond that existed between the two countries. The China and Malaysia government should come up with adequate ways to contain their citizens under such circumstances. The China and Malaysia government has the capability of controlling the risk of fatalities. Nevertheless, the two governments have no assurance that they will fully eliminate the fatalities. In the event of disagreements, China and Malaysia governments should solve them rationally. Encourage The Chinese tourists to visit Malaysia Malaysia encourages the tourist trade between China and Malaysia. In fact, Malaysia government has made tremendous efforts to attract tourists from China. Nevertheless, certain circumstances emerge to hinder the efforts made by Malaysia to make the country attractive to tourists from China. For instance, in 2005, a nude squat incident happened that immigration officials from Malaysia restrained and forced two women from Singapore to perform squat naked (Kamal, 2011). It affected the country tourism sector despite that the government took stern on the officials involved. Uplift trade barriers between the two nations China and Malaysia should enhance a free trade between the China and Malaysia. They mainly relate in one another through the bilateral trade. However, the bilateral relationship between the two countries has worsened. Malaysia is highly committed to restoring the relationship with China. Malaysia and China should enhance more cooperation in different investments to enhance a long-term trade relationship. In fact, Malaysia has a recommendation for more than seventy countries to work in China. At the same time, Malaysia has encouraged the China companies to invest in Malaysia For instance; the two countries should enhance more access to the current exchange services to promote more transaction between the two countries. The removal of barriers will highly promote the movement of labor and goods. Malaysia has maintained several ways of controlling the exchange rate. The country has used managed, Bretton Woods’s system and free floating to control the exchange rate. The country should be consistent in the control of the foreign exchange. Encourage the media to report the facts The media in Chinese has highly contributed the worsening of the trade relationship between China and Malaysia. Actually, in several instances the media has misinterpreted several situations that involved China and Malaysia. The result is that the citizens in China are not willing to make trade relationships with Malaysia. The media highly misrepresented the facts that existed on the missing plane on the citizens who were emotionally uncontrolled for their missing loved ones. Instead, media should be encouraged to find the facts and report the cases accurately. In fact, media should promote the relationships between the two countries. Institute more trade agreements The trade agreements will enhance priority to the Asian and Chinese companies on the tenders awarded by the government (Seng 2). In fact, the bilateral trade between China and Malaysia meant to enhance trade investments in the two countries. In fact, the economic agreements between China and Malaysia will promote business opportunities to businesspersons for the two countries. Najib, who visited China, identified various sectors that are open for investment in Malaysia. They include infrastructure, manufacturing industries, energy and finance. For instance, the visit identified projects like the railway building from Gemas to Johor. In addition, Najib urged the Chinese to invest in other areas like Mengkuang Dam project and the second Penang Bridge. Najib discussed various projects with Hu Jintao from China (1). However, they noted that High-voltage Direct Current cables laid through South China Sea is complicated. All the same, it will highly benefit Malaysia. Recommendations on how to improve political relations between china and Malaysia China is relatively larger country compared to Malaysia. The political atmosphere has a greater effect in influencing the mutual relationship between countries. Both governments should embark on harmonious policies to make peace reign between them. Political stability is achievable through the creation of sound foreign policies, social balances, economic reforms, diplomatic efforts foreign policies, signing integrative MoUs, sporting activities among others. Change of ideologies among political parties Malaysian Democratic Party should work with your China communist party by sharing development policies. Communists and Democrats are major political wings of these two countries and, therefore, tremendous in prevailing a base political environment. The parties should exchange ideologies thus strengthening political ties between them. Trade and commerce The trade and commerce department of Malaysia cooperate with your corresponding trade sector to contribute a significant share in peace and stability among our states. A smoother trade is free from any form of exploitation of the trading partners. China and Malaysia need to sign a memorandum of understanding that would eliminate any form of trade barrier between them. The two countries possibly should charge a reasonable tax on their expo-import commodities. A conducive economic environment results in a stable political atmosphere. Improved consultations Leaders of the two countries should relate cordially and consult each other because consultation fosters in a better reputation for political tolerance. It is worthwhile to note what Tun Abdul Razak in 1974 during his visit to Beijing advocated for political tolerant and social engagement through diplomatic ties. A continuous dialogue and communication network strengthens political stability among nations in questions. The two presidents are symbols of national unity hence should champion peace negotiation whenever a dispute leaks between nations. Any mission a president tops in persuading is as equal to accomplishing. Many citizens trust and obey the command of our leaders, and such confidence in the leadership would restore calm coexistence our republics. Whenever leaders come out in foreign diplomacy, the resultant outcome would stabilize political environments. Upholding the Constitution and rule of law Constitution is a tool of the framework that stipulates a country management strategy and focuses on the general governance of any country. A Malaysian government proposes a constitution that would accommodates various interests of these two countries such as a fair deal in political steadiness. Two countries should formulate laws and regulations such as allowing for dual citizenship and use of standard identification documents. All forms of unnecessary strictness at the borders and rigid immigration policies need moderation. Improving transport and coordination Mobility of people encourages mutual understanding and spirit of goodwill. The two governments should improve infrastructures between them such as roadwork system and telecommunication network thus facilitating a movement of people. Better transport network systems enhance exchange explorations between the nations. Improved infrastructures boost globalization that in turn induces socio-political understanding. Private Sector Development Private sectors play a fundamental role in creating coercion in promoting economic and social opportunities for then people. Private organizations facilitate growth in various sectors of the economy. Private sectors such as civil societies need empowerments to spearhead in relaying information regarding mutual benefits of peaceful settings. Learning institutions Learning institutions should offer a free academic exchange in allowing students to acquire their education quickly within two states. Our government should motivate the University students to be ambassadors of peace and understanding in the communities. Students would exchange their cultural and political background thus enabling them to appreciate each other, and this too boosts political situations between China and Malaysia. Works Cited Bower, Ernest and Nguyen, Phuong. Will China-Malaysia Relations Remain a Model for Asia?. Center for strategic and International Relations. February 18, 2015. Web. May 12, 2015 http://cogitasia.com/will-china-malaysia-relations-remain-a-model-for-asia/ Boykoff, Pamela and Leong, Chan. Lucrative China-Malaysia relations not derailed by search for MH370. CNN. April 7, 2014. Web. May 12, 2015. http://edition.cnn.com/2014/04/06/business/malaysia-china-relations-trade-mh370/ Kamal, Shazwan. Home Ministry to Probe Nude Squat Incident. 2011 The Malaysia Insider. Insider. June 15, 2011. Web. May 12, 2015 http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/home-ministry-to-probe-nude-squat-incident Li, Morgane. ChinaSF Met with Representative of China-Malaysia Qinzhou Industrial Park (CMQIP). ChinaSF. Aug 13, 2014. Web. May 12, 2015 http://www.chinasf.org/cmqip/ Ministry of Foreign Affairs of People’s Republic of China. Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Qin Gangs Regular Press Conference on May 28, 2014. web. May 12, 2015 http://www.fmprc.gov.cn/mfa_eng/xwfw_665399/s2510_665401/2511_665403/t1160500.shtml Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Malaysia. Bilateral Diplomacy. 2015. web. May 12, 2015 http://www.kln.gov.my/web/guest/overview Ng, Teddy and Lee, Danny. Chinas ambassador to Malaysia distances country from anger of MH370 families. South China Morning Post. April 03, 2014. web. May 12, 2015 http://www.scmp.com/news/china/article/1463393/chinas-ambassador-malaysia-huang-huikang-strikes-conciliatory-tone-over Parameswaran, Prashanth. Malaysia, China Begin First Joint Military Exercise. The Diplomat. December 24, 2014. Web. May 12, 2015 http://thediplomat.com/2014/12/malaysia-china-begin-first-joint-military-exercise/ Seng, Tin. Renewing 35 Years of Malaysia-china Relations: Najibs Visit to China. 2009. EAI Background Brief No. 460. Web. May 12, 2015 http://www.eai.nus.edu.sg/BB460.pdf Wagner, Daniel and Cafiero, Giorgio. Why MH370 Will Not Change Chinese/Malaysia Relations. The World Post. July 20, 2014. web. May 12, 2015 http://www.huffingtonpost.com/daniel-wagner/why-mh370-will-not-change_b_5354067.html Yunus, Akil. China-Malaysia Qinzhou Industrial Park to begin operations in 2014. Business Times. 03 September 2013. Web. May 12, 2015 http://www2.nst.com.my/business/latest/china-malaysia-qinzhou-industrial-park-to-begin-operations-in-2014-1.348647 Read More