Anwar’s China visit puts Malaysia’s technology, skills and connectivity plans in focus

Shanghai, Malaysia's Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is set to embark on a working visit to the city, commencing tomorrow in conjunction with WorldSkills Shanghai 2026. This visit underscores the strengthening of ties between Malaysia and China, following multiple high-level exchanges involving the prime minister, deputy prime minister, and Yang di-Pertuan Agong over the past three years.

Malaysian Ambassador to China Datuk Norman Muhamad highlighted that the visit will not only address traditional areas of bilateral relations but also explore new fields of strategic importance to both nations. These areas include education, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), and artificial intelligence (AI).

Anwar will attend the opening ceremony of the 46th WorldSkills Competition 2026, deliver a keynote address, and participate in a roundtable session with business leaders in Shanghai. He will also be accompanied by several senior government officials. Notably, the visit will culminate in a bilateral meeting between Anwar and Chinese Premier Li Qiang, followed by a dinner hosted by Li, during which they will discuss strengthening bilateral ties under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership framework.

This includes potential extensions to the East Coast Rail Link project and the upgrade of the "Two Countries, Twin Parks" project. Discussions will also cover collaboration in advanced technologies such as AI, green energy, semiconductors, and the digital economy.