KUALA LUMPUR: The government has always recognised the contribution of the Malaysian Chinese community in the country's socioeconomic developments, as well as in economic, cultural, educational and industrial sectors, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Anwar said he acknowledged and saluted the role of Chinese entrepreneurs in Malaysia and globally for assuming the task of propelling the local and international economy.
"In a world marked by complexities and fraught with increasing instability, uncertainties and unpredictability, Chinese entrepreneurs globally can assume a bigger role in safeguarding regional economic cooperation, ensuring the security of crucial supply chains and promoting our global socio-economic development agenda.
"From Southeast Asia to East Asia, the United States, Canada, Europe and Africa, Chinese entrepreneurs have collaborated closely with others and have laid the foundations for forging deeper and stronger business and economic links across national borders."
Anwar said this in his keynote address at the 17th World Chinese Entrepreneurs Convention here, today.
Anwar noted that the visit of Chinese Premier Li Qiang in June this year also reaffirmed the enduring friendship and mutual respect between Malaysia and China.
"We have laid a solid foundation for enhanced collaboration in new key and innovative sectors that will drive our economies forward," he said.
The Prime Minister added that the relationship extends beyond traditional investment policies and practices and it has evolved into a more competitive new economic framework that encompasses not only investment but also other sectors including tourism.
Some 4,000 local business leaders and overseas delegates from Asia, Europe, the Middle East, as well as North and South America, are attending the three-day convention organised by the Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia (ACCCIM) at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.-- BERNAMA