Malaysia-China Strengthen Strategic Cooperation in Environmental Sustainability

Malaysia and China are strengthening cooperation in natural resource management and environmental sustainability, with a particular focus on marine conservation and the Blue Economy.

The discussions took place during a courtesy visit by Sun Shuxian, China’s Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and head of the State Oceanic Administration, to Malaysia’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability. Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup led the Malaysian delegation.

The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries. Key areas included the proposed Marine Environmental Cooperation Agreement and initiatives supporting the Blue Economy.

Both sides agreed to further develop a marine cooperation platform covering research, science and technology, technical expertise exchange, and marine ecosystem management. Technical officers from both countries are expected to work out further details.

Against the backdrop of Malaysia’s current haze issue, Malaysia also proposed exploring cooperation with China on forest fire management and cloud seeding, drawing on China’s expertise and technology. Malaysia also noted China’s bid to host the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Secretariat in Xiamen.

Malaysia remains open to the proposal, subject to guidance from its Foreign Ministry and consideration of the interests of coastal states in the region. The discussions concluded with Malaysia inviting China to participate in the International Greentech and Eco Products Exhibition and Conference (IGEM) 2026.

China indicated that it would encourage relevant industry partners to participate. The cooperation highlights growing bilateral engagement around marine ecosystems, natural resource management, environmental technologies, and sustainable economic development.