High-level Yulin delegation explores trade, investment and industrial partnerships in Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia hosted a high-level business delegation from Yulin City, Shaanxi Province, as the China (Yulin) – Malaysia Economic and Trade Cooperation Matchmaking Conference concluded successfully at JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur.
Led by Mr. Yang Yang, Vice Mayor of Yulin City, the conference brought together senior government officials, industry leaders, and business representatives from both nations, underscoring a renewed commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
The event marked two firsts for Yulin: its first official delegation to Southeast Asia and the first Economic and Trade Cooperation Matchmaking Conference ever held by the city in Malaysia — signaling deepening interest from Chinese regional governments in forging stronger ties with Malaysia.
Platform to Introduce Yulin’s Economic Potential
During his keynote speech, Vice Mayor Yang highlighted the symbolic importance of 2025 as the beginning of a “new Golden 50 Years” of China–Malaysia diplomatic relations.
“Just as the ancient Silk Road connected our civilizations, today’s Belt and Road Initiative opens a new chapter for mutual prosperity,” he said.
The conference aimed to present Yulin’s economic strengths and investment environment to Malaysian enterprises and investors, covering sectors such as energy, advanced manufacturing, modern agriculture, and new materials.
Malaysian companies were also introduced to opportunities for cultural exchange, technological cooperation, and talent development.
Strengthening Regional and Institutional Collaboration
During their Kuala Lumpur visit, the Yulin delegation held meetings with ECERDC (East Coast Economic Region Development Council) and BPEN (Bureau of Investment Promotion) — the first time Yulin has engaged with Southeast Asian regional authorities at this level.
The discussions explored long-term cooperation in trade, tourism, culture, and education, laying the groundwork for future agreements.
The delegation also met with Malaysian business chambers and industry associations to evaluate potential collaboration in green energy, hydrogen development, chemical engineering, and industrial innovation.
Key members of the Yulin delegation included:
- Ren Xiaochun, Director, Bureau of Foreign Affairs and Economic Cooperation
- Liu Jun, Director, Bureau of Commerce
- Qiao Jie, Director, Bureau of Science and Technology
- Representatives from Yulin industrial parks, districts and counties
Yulin: A Rising Economic Force in Northwest China
Located at the meeting point of five major provinces — Shaanxi, Gansu, Ningxia, Shanxi, and Inner Mongolia — Yulin is one of western China’s fastest-growing cities.
Highlights of its economic development include:
- 2024 GDP exceeding RMB 750 billion, ranking among the top non-provincial capital cities in central and western China
- Leadership in China’s energy and coal-chemical industries
- Rapid growth in hydrogen energy, magnesium-aluminium manufacturing, and eco-tourism
- Recognition as a National Forest City, showcasing balanced ecological and industrial advancement
Culturally, Yulin is known as the birthplace of Loess Plateau heritage and plays a crucial role in China’s western development strategy.
Malaysia Positioned as Key Partner in BRI Collaboration
The conference emphasized Malaysia’s strategic relevance as a Southeast Asian partner for Yulin’s expanding international presence. Malaysian strengths in manufacturing, renewable energy, and higher education were identified as areas with strong synergy for Yulin’s industrial goals.
Vice Mayor Yang affirmed that the visit will pave the way for sustained collaboration.
“As Yulin’s development resonates with Malaysia’s growth ambitions, this conference serves as a bridge for future cooperation — transforming friendship into concrete partnerships.”
