The "Guangdong Goods Go Global: Zhongshan Products in Malaysia" exhibition, held April 25-26 at Pavilion Bukit Jalil in Kuala Lumpur, drew political figures keen to see stronger Malaysia-China business ties. Among them was Chua Wei Kiat, the Selangor State Assemblyman for Rawang.
Walking through the exhibition hall, Chua was impressed by the turnout and the variety of products on display—from household appliances and industrial fans to drones. "This event has attracted quite a number of Malaysians to come here and get to know the products of Zhongshan enterprises," he said.
Chua noted that travelling directly to Zhongshan, a manufacturing hub in China's Guangdong Province, is not easy for most Malaysians. "There is a certain distance, a certain amount of time, and certain difficulties involved," he explained. "So having the Zhongshan municipal government come here and organize this kind of event makes it much easier for Malaysians to get closer to and better understand the products that Zhongshan has been producing."
The assemblyman described the exhibition as more than just a trade show. "I think it can also promote connections and mutual understanding between businesses and people from both countries," he said. "It is a very good and very great activity."
But for Chua, the event also represents a starting point. "It is actually a new start," he said. "Looking ahead, I think more Zhongshan businesses can come to Malaysia for exhibitions and showcases, so that Malaysians can gain a deeper understanding of the distinctive products made in Zhongshan. This will give Malaysians—and the wider Southeast Asian region—more opportunities to get to know them and to expand business possibilities."
Chua also highlighted Malaysia's strategic advantage as a gateway to the region. "Malaysia is geographically located at the center of Southeast Asia and is a trading nation. Facing the huge Southeast Asian market, I think this is a very advantageous and high-quality geographical environment," he said. "So, I welcome Zhongshan businesses to come to Malaysia and see for themselves how this business-friendly country can help them further expand their trade activities."
The assemblyman, who admitted he has visited Zhongshan many times and already has a soft spot for the city, couldn't resist doing some personal shopping. "I just saw some home appliance products, and I'm very interested in them. I'll go and take a look later to see what I can buy," he said.
Guo Zedong reporting from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Text & Photo: Guo Zedong
