KUALA LUMPUR: A group of Malaysian government officials completed a week-long Mandarin language and cultural visit to China, in a move to boost ties between the two nations.
The Nov 24 to 30 trip marked the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
It was organised by the Han Culture Centre Malaysia with the support of the Chinese embassy in Malaysia and hosted by Tianjin Normal University (TNU).
The delegation consisted of 10 representatives from the Foreign Ministry, police, Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry, Tourism Malaysia, National Unity Ministry, Istana Budaya, the Local Government Department and Malaysian Investment Development Authority.
Han Culture Centre Malaysia general manager Alex Yong said the trip was just the beginning of greater cooperation.
"The participants returned home enriched with knowledge and experiences that will contribute to relations between the two nations."
The participants took part in intensive Mandarin lessons and explored Chinese culture through visits to landmarks such as the Huangyaguan Great Wall, TNU, Tianjin Museum, Ancient Cultural Street and Haihe River.
The delegates performed traditional Malaysian dances and Chinese songs at the closing ceremony, showcasing their new skills and celebrating the growing cultural ties between Malaysia and China.
The event was attended by officials from TNU, including Yang Wei, dean of the International Institute of Educational Exchange, and vice-dean Gao Hang.