Malaysia-China cooperation must create real opportunities for youth - Mordi

SHAH ALAM – Cooperation between Malaysia and China must be translated into tangible opportunities for young people, particularly in employment, skills development and international mobility.

Deputy Youth and Sports Minister Mordi Bimol said in an increasingly challenging global landscape, every policy and strategic partnership should deliver direct benefits to the youth as the nation’s future.

He said rising economic uncertainties, rapid technological advancement and shifting geopolitical dynamics are reshaping the development pathways of nations.

For Malaysia, he said this moment presents both challenges and opportunities.

"The 13th Malaysia Plan reflects a strong national commitment to economic transformation, accelerated digitalisation, sustainable development and inclusive growth.

"The direction is clear. Malaysia must remain open, adaptive and forward-looking, while continuing to strengthen its resilience and competitiveness within the region.

"In this context, engagement with international partners, including China becomes increasingly important, guided by national priorities and long-term development goals," he said at the Malaysia Friends of Silk Road Club appreciation dinner held at Menara Affin, Kuala Lumpur, last night.

He added that there are clear areas of alignment between Malaysia and China, particularly in innovation, sustainability and industrial upgrading, stressing that such cooperation must translate into meaningful outcomes for the people, especially the younger generation.

Mordi said policies and partnerships, whether domestic or international, will eventually shape the future of young people including their job prospects, skills and ability to thrive in an interconnected world.

He said the future demands a shift beyond academic knowledge, with young people needing digital skills, innovative thinking, environmental awareness and the confidence to engage across cultures.

Thus, he said there is a growing emphasis on strengthening talent development in emerging sectors such as digital technology, green industries and advanced manufacturing, while expanding access to skills training, lifelong learning and ecosystems that support youth entrepreneurship and innovation.

"Cooperation between Malaysia and China, in this regard, offers significant potential particularly in creating pathways for youth through education, technology, entrepreneurship and cultural exchange.

"It is equally important to recognise that people-to-people connections remain at the heart of strong and sustainable international relations.

"Platforms such as the Malaysia Friends of Silk Road Club play a meaningful role in fostering trust, strengthening relationships and creating real opportunities for collaboration especially among young people," he said.

He said these efforts complement broader cooperation by building connections at the community level and ensuring long-term continuity.

Mordi also stressed that Malaysia’s strength lies in its diversity, strategic position and open economy, but this potential can only be realised with a prepared, capable and forward-looking young generation.