Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim speaks during a plenary session of the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, Russia Sept 5, 2024. [Vyacheslav Viktorov/Roscongress Foundation via REUTERS]

Chinese entrepreneurs play an important role in supporting the economy of Malaysia and that of the wider world, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim told a forum in the capital Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday.

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 the global socio-economic development agenda, Anwar said at the 17th World Chinese Entrepreneurs Convention.

"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," he said.

Held from Monday to Wednesday, the convention focuses on green economy, the semiconductor industry and investment opportunities in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations under the theme "Reimagineering the Future". More than 4,000 corporate leaders, experts and researchers from all over the world joined the event.

Noting that China has been Malaysia's largest trading partner for 15 consecutive years and a major source of foreign direct investment, Anwar said Malaysia's comprehensive strategic partnership with China will help not only his country but also the region.

Wang Huning, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, sent a congratulatory letter to the convention.

China will consistently adhere to the spirit of openness and inclusiveness, steadily expand its institutional openness, shorten the negative list for foreign investment, further open its modern service sector, and strive to create a first-class business environment that is market-oriented, rules-based and internationalized, said Wang, who is also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee.

This will provide a brighter prospect and more cooperation opportunities for global investors including Chinese entrepreneurs, he said.

Low Kian Chuan, president of The Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia, the event's organizer, said legendary acumen and the adaptability to innovate in a fast-paced and competitive environment have helped Chinese entrepreneurs thrive and navigate current and future global challenges.

Keith Li, president of the China Entrepreneurs Association in Malaysia, said that Chinese companies investing in Malaysia have made a big contribution to the local economy.

The two countries' cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative has also generated tangible results, Li added.