13-5-2024 (KUALA LUMPUR) In a bid to foster closer parliamentary, economic, and cultural ties, a delegation from Hong Kong’s Legislative Council (LegCo), led by its President, Mr. Andrew Leung, embarked on a diplomatic mission to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The visit, which commenced on May 13, aimed to deepen the understanding of Malaysia’s parliamentary system, explore avenues for trade collaboration, and promote social cohesion between the two regions.
The day’s agenda began with a visit to the Parliament of Malaysia, where the delegation paid a courtesy call on the esteemed Speaker of the House of Representatives, YB Tan Sri Dato’ (Dr.) Johari Bin Abdul. This encounter provided an opportunity for the Hong Kong envoys to engage with Malaysian Members of Parliament, gaining invaluable insights into the nation’s parliamentary affairs and current socio-political landscape.
During their interactions, the delegation seized the chance to introduce the latest developments unfolding across various sectors in Hong Kong, sharing updates on the work of the Seventh LegCo. A fruitful exchange of views ensued, covering a wide range of topics, including parliamentary proceedings, economic and trade collaboration, and the promotion of social cohesion. Following the engaging discussions, the delegates were treated to a guided tour of the iconic Parliament Building.
Recognizing the importance of agricultural trade, the delegation met with representatives from the Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority of Malaysia. Discussions centered around the intricate processes of Halal certification and the import of Malaysian food products into Hong Kong, highlighting the shared commitment to facilitating seamless commercial exchanges.
The afternoon saw the envoys pay a courtesy call on the Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry of Malaysia, Mr. Liew Chin Tong. This meeting held particular significance, as Malaysia stands as Hong Kong’s ninth-largest trading partner and the third-largest among member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The delegation expressed their profound gratitude to Malaysia for supporting Hong Kong’s accession to the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), underscoring their aspiration for deeper collaboration in trade and investment endeavors.
As the day drew to a close, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to Malaysia, Mr. Ouyang Yujing, graciously hosted a dinner reception in honor of the visiting delegation. This gathering provided a platform for constructive dialogue, exploring avenues through which Hong Kong could leverage its unique advantages, such as the unwavering support of the motherland and its global connectivity, to strengthen cooperation with Malaysia.
The diplomatic mission is set to continue on May 14, with the delegation scheduled to engage with chambers of commerce in Malaysia and visit the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation. Later in the evening, the envoys will depart for Jakarta, Indonesia, carrying with them the shared aspirations of deepening ties and fostering mutually beneficial partnerships between the two nations.
