Malaysia can boost defence cooperation with China – Raja Muda

BEIJING: Defence cooperation between Malaysia and China is unavoidable following its increasingly encouraging economical, technological and military development.

The Raja Muda of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail said Malaysia was fortunate to be able to foster bilateral relations and cooperation for 40 years with China.

“In conjunction with the celebration of 40 years of diplomatic relations this year, I hope the relation with the people, whether at the top, middle or lower levels, can also be boosted.

“It is important for us to close the gap between the Malaysian Armed Forces and People’s Liberation Army (PLA) of China,” he said after a briefing at the National Defence University of China (NDU) here, yesterday evening.

The briefing which lasted more than an hour, touched a lot on the role of NDU and China’s military policy, and was delivered by NDU Maxism Research Department depty director Maj-Gen Hung Shu Jin and NDU Strategic Rearch Department Professor, Senior Colonel Hou Xiohe.

Syed Faizuddin, as Regiment 504 Territorial Army Commander, headed a delegation of Reserve Officer Training Units f rom seven public institutions of higher learning (IPTA) in Malaysia, on a visit programme to military camps and universities in Beijing beginning yesterday until Nov 17.

“China has a vast experience and I invite China to cooperate with the IPTA in Malaysia,” he said. Shu Jin said 1,043 military officers from 43 nations including three Malaysians were studying at NDU which offered studies up to doctorate in philosophy including in strategy, logistics, international politics and war.

Responding to a question on China’s policy, Shu Jin said China prioritised boosting the strength and image of PLA and was prepared to help foster military ties including in weapon technology with friendly nations.

“China’s policy of nonintervention is very clear and it wants to contribute to regional stability and peace especially with neighbours and close friends. China regards Malaysia as a very close friend,” he added. - Bernama