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China, ASEAN form comprehensive strategic partnership as Xi chairs summit
Above pic: President Xi Jinping chairs the ASEAN-China Special Summit to Commemorate the 30th Anniversary of ASEAN-China Dialogue Relations via China and ASEAN on Monday agreed to
video link in Beijing, capital of China, Nov 22, 2021 elevate their ties to a comprehensive
strategic partnership, as Chinese President
Xi Jinping attended and chaired a special
summit to commemorate the 30th
anniversary of China-ASEAN dialogue
relations via video link.
"This is a new milestone in the history of
our relations and will inject new impetus
into the peace, stability, prosperity and
development of our region and the world,"
Xi said, commenting on the partnership
with the Association of Southeast Asian
Nations (ASEAN).
The summit was co-chaired by Haji
Hassanal Bolkiah, the Sultan of Brunei,
who is also the ASEAN chairman for 2021.
(See reports on Pg 4.)
Nancy: Zhejiang virtual exhibition a new chapter in
culture and tourism sector
The Virtual Zhejiang Cultural and Tourism Also present were China’s Ambassador cooperation with Zhejiang of China to Malaysia's Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister
Exhibition has opened up a new chapter on to Malaysia, Ouyang Yujing; Zhejiang ensure a solid foundation for recovery Nancy Shukri speaks at the launching ceremony
bilateral exchanges in the culture and Tourism Promotion Centre in Southeast post-COVID,” she said. of the "Virtual Exhibition of Zhejiang" event in
tourism sector, said Tourism, Arts and Asia chief representative, Datuk Keith Li;
Culture Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri. Malaysia-China Insight Trilingual News Nancy said China is one of the major Kuala Lumpur
chairman Datuk Seri Azman Ujang and sources of inbound tourists for Malaysia
Nancy said the COVID-19 pandemic since Malaysian National News Agency (Berna- whereas Zhejiang is also one of the popular diplomacy with China in preserving this
early 2020 posed tremendous challenges ma) Chief Executive Officer Datuk Mokhtar tourist destinations for Malaysians. shared heritage,” she said.
but technology enabled things to be done Hussain.
differently and brought many changes into Zhejiang Provincial Department of “Our bilateral relationship is strength-
the field of culture. Culture and Tourism of China director Chu ened by our people visiting each other.
Ziyu; Singapore Tourism Board chief execu- History has proven that the cultural
“It has changed the way culture is mediat- tive officer Keith Tan and Vietnam National exchange between Malaysia and China has
ed to the audience as well as the way Administration of Tourism vice chairman contributed to the diversity of Malaysia’s
culture is consumed and perceived. Ha Van Sieu joined the event virtually. unique cultural heritage that can be seen
Nancy added that through this virtual today.
“I would like to congratulate the Zhejiang exhibition, Malaysians will experience the
Provincial Department of Culture and beautiful landscape and splendid culture “In 2020, Malaysia, through a Multi-Na-
Tourism for carrying out this innovative of Zhejiang. tional Nomination with China successfully
virtual event and we are delighted to “I believe this event will be a good start, inscribed the Wangkang Ceremony in
connect with Zhejiang of China by such a and we expect a continuous and closer United Nations Educational, Scientific and
brand-new method of tourism promotion,” Cultural Organisation Representative List
she said when launching the virtual exhibi- of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. The
tion at Wisma Bernama here, today. listing is a testament of our strong cultural
Ouyang: Cultural and tourism exchanges have been
moved to online platforms to enrich people-to-people
exchanges between the two countries
Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia Ouyang Yujing Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia Ouyang mutual understanding, expand and consists of five sections, namely Charm of
speaks at the launching ceremony of the "Virtual Yujing noted that the history of contact deepen the cooperation between Zhejiang Landscape, Collection of History, Alley of
between Zhejiang and Malaysia could be and Malaysia. With the further develop- Craftsmanship, Echo of Sounds and Taste
Exhibition of Zhejiang" event in Kuala Lumpur traced back to the height of the ancient ment of the Belt and Road Initiative, the of Jiangnan, which offers a comprehensive
Maritime Silk Road, and this tradition of cultural and tourism cooperation between and panoramic view of the natural beauty,
contact would be the foundation of strong- Zhejiang Province and Malaysia will rich history, intangible cultural heritage,
er people-to-people interaction in modern definitely be broader and brighter," he fantastic art and local delicacies in
times. said. Zhejiang.
"I believe this ceremony will enhance the The "Virtual Exhibition of Zhejiang"
02 DECEMBER 2021
Malaysians now can explore Zhejiang in China virtually
The beauty of Zhejiang in China is now Above pic: Malaysia's Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Nancy Shukri (C), Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia Ouyang Yujing (R) and Datuk Keith Li, chief
accessible online for Malaysians to explore representative of Zhejiang Tourism Promotion Center in Southeast Asia, attend the launching ceremony of the "Virtual Exhibition of Zhejiang"
as a virtual exhibition of the province event in Kuala Lumpur
organised by the Zhejiang Provincial
Department of Culture and Tourism kicked China's Ambassador to Malaysia, Ouyang Azman Ujang and Malaysian National Ziyu; Singapore Tourism Board chief execu-
off on Wednesday (Nov 24). Yujing; Zhejiang Tourism Promotion Centre News Agency (Bernama) Chief Executive tive officer Keith Tan and Vietnam National
in Southeast Asia chief representative, Officer Datuk Mokhtar Hussain. Administration of Tourism vice chairman
The online exhibition themed "Panorama Datuk Keith Li; Malaysia-China Insight Ha Van Sieu joined the event virtually.
Hall of Virtual Exhibition of Zhejiang", Trilingual News chairman Datuk Seri Zhejiang Provincial Department of
which ends on Nov 30, presents an overall Culture and Tourism of China director Chu
perspective of Zhejiang from five aspects -
landscape, history, intangible cultural
heritage, art and food.
Zhejiang Provincial Department of
Culture and Tourism director Chu Ziyu said
the Covid-19 pandemic dealt a heavy blow
to exchanges in the culture and tourism
sector between Zhejiang and Southeast
Asia.
"Although the pandemic separates us
apart geographically, our desire and
passion for exchange never subsided.
"Therefore, we have prepared the '
Panorama Hall of Virtual Exhibition of
Zhejiang' to showcase picturesque
landscape, profound history, ingenious
craftsmanship, artistic representation and
culinary flavors of Zhejiang, with five
chapters namely Charm of Landscape,
Collection of History, Alley of Craftsman-
ship, Echo of Sounds and Taste of
Jiangnan," he said in his speech virtually
during the launching ceremony.
The exhibition was synchronically
launched online in Malaysia, Singapore
and Vietnam by Tourism, Arts and Culture
Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri at Wisma
Bernama here.
Also present at the launching were
Above pic: Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.
Also present was Pahang Menteri Besar
Nancy: Malaysia’s natural beauty can be among Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail.
world’s preferred eco-tourism destinations
Nancy added that the Bera district has
The country’s natural beauty which has with its rich natural ecosystems is those who love nature-based and outdoor the potential to be one of the country’s
healing effects and is a self-help therapy well-known to local and foreign tourists as activities such as jungle tracking,” she said popular tourist destinations and MOTAC
can make Malaysia one of the preferred it is the home to over 200 bird species, 50 in her speech at Keluarga Malaysia (Malay- would give full support to home stay
eco-tourism destinations in the world, said mammal species and 90 fish species sian Family) ‘Hogoh Bera 2020’ Programme operators, including those in Felda Kumai,
Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister besides being a habitat of various types of at Felda Kumai here today. to attract more tourists.
(MOTAC) Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri. flora.
The two-day programme which kicked In another development, Nancy said
She said Tasik Bera here, for example, “These promise a unique experience for off yesterday was officiated by Prime MOTAC would also support all activities
under the tourism sector, including those
organised by cultural associations and
external organisations by providing
incentive and training assistance.
She cited as examples the arts incentive
assistance to nine cultural arts associations
amounting to RM71,900 and the Arts
Activists Prihatin Assistance in Pahang,
which showed MOTAC’s concern over
those who were affected by the COVID-19
pandemic.
“Through the National Culture and Arts
Department (Pahang), MOTAC provides
continuous training and holds engagement
sessions with the state government,
non-governmental organisations (NGOs)
and corporate bodies related to arts and
culture activities as well as conduct studies
on Pahang’s traditional culture,” she said.
On the programme, Nancy said the
government agencies adopted the going
down to the field approach by getting the
community, including the grassroots,
involved through participation, to get
closer to them.
“Harmony and understanding between
the people is clearly evident in one of the
events held which was the ‘kenduri rakyat’
(people’s feast) which saw the residents of
Felda Kumai cooking up a feast in line with
the Keluarga Malaysia concept,” she said.
03DECEMBER 2021
Above pic: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob (L) delivering his speech during the Malaysian delegation at the ASEAN-China Special Summit countries will be prepared to effectively
to commemorate the 30th anniversary of ASEAN-China Dialogue Relations held via video conferencing. deal with future health emergencies.
PM Ismail Sabri: ASEAN, China could enhance Moreover, in view of nationalism and
public health cooperation to prepare for geo-politics rivalry shaping responses to
emergencies the COVID-19 pandemic, including the
distribution of vaccines, he said a new
Malaysia has called on ASEAN and China the sharing of technology, know-how and Yaakob said cooperation in this area would global health security architecture that
to enhance cooperation in public health intellectual property. be helpful in upgrading ASEAN’s public underpinned by shared commitment,
and pharmaceutical capabilities through health systems, to ensure the member collective responsibility, transparency and
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri accountability has to be developed.
He said this while speaking in his
intervention note at the ASEAN-China
Special Summit to Commemorate the 30th
Anniversary of ASEAN-China Dialogue
Relations held via video conference from
here, Monday. The Special Summit was
chaired by Brunei's ruler, Sultan Hassanal
Bolkiah as his country is the chair to this
year's ASEAN chairmanship. It was also
attended by China's President Xi Jinping.
The prime minister had also stressed that
socio-economic recovery from the
COVID-19 pandemic is a top priority as
countries move towards the post-pandem-
ic stage.
He said towards this end, ASEAN and
China should consolidate cooperation in
digital economy, transformation and
infrastructure, as well as connectivity to
ensure supply chains continue to expand
and remain unimpeded.
In his concluding remarks, Ismail Sabri
said Malaysia congratulated ASEAN and
China for the various activities carried out
this year to celebrate our 30 years of
dialogue relations.
“I am confident that ASEAN-China
dialogue relations will continue to thrive
and deepen. Towards this end, Malaysia
views that with a strong network through a
common ASEAN-China platform, our think
tanks can play a very important role in
contributing towards a stronger and more
resilient ASEAN-China partnership;” he
said.
Saifuddin: Claims in South China
Sea will not hinder ASEAN-China
relations
Though a number of ASEAN countries are partnership," he told a press conference Above pic: Foreign Minister Datuk Saifuddin Abdullah
involved in territorial claims with China in after accompanying Prime Minister Datuk
South China Sea, that should not be an Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob to the ASEAN-China tively and rationally through dialogues and should be committed in preserving South
issue which could hinder the relations Special Summit to commemorate the 30th negotiations. China Sea as a sea of peace, stability and
between China and the 10-member group- anniversary of ASEAN-China Dialogue trade," Saifuddin said.
ing, said Foreign Minister Datuk Saifuddin Relations held via videoconferencing on "Malaysia emphasised that all nations
Abdullah. Monday
The minister said he believes that the The special summit was co-chaired by
economic, education and many other issues Sultan of Brunei Darussalam Sultan
would prevail over the contentious claims Hassanal Bolkiah and Chinese President Xi
through the ASEAN-China Dialogue Jinping.
Relations, which had now been elevated to
a comprehensive strategic partnership. Saifuddin said that during the interven-
tion at the summit, Ismail Sabri reiterated
"I believe there are more to be expected Malaysia's consistent stand on the South
from the economic realm and sociocultural China Sea and wanted the contentious
realm of the comprehensive strategic issue to be handled peacefully, construc-
South korea, ASEAN agree to quicken customs procedure for their FTA
South Korea and the Association of when they export goods to the 10 member such certificates until the pandemic is ASEAN comprises Brunei, Cambodia,
Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have states of ASEAN, according to Yonhap news brought under control and ASEAN accept- Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the
agreed to address sticky issues in customs agency quoting the Economy and Finance ed the offer, according to the ministry. Philippines, Thailand, Singapore and
procedures for better implementation of Ministry. Vietnam.
their free trade agreement (FTA), the They have decided to discuss later when
finance ministry said Monday. Korean exporters have had difficulties as they will end the measure after taking into ASEAN currently stands as the
the COVID-19 pandemic has delayed account the virus situation. second-largest trading partner for South
Under the agreement, South Korean internation al shipments of certificates of Korea, with their trade reaching US$143.8
firms will be able to receive tariff benefits if origin, it said. Since the free trade deal between South billion in 2020, more than doubling from
they submit a copy of certificates of origin Korea and ASEAN took effect in June 2007, $61.8 billion tallied in 2006.
South Korea proposed that it and the the country's trade with the economic bloc
economic bloc mutually approve a copy of has more than doubled.
04 DECEMBER 2021
China, ASEAN form comprehensive strategic partnership as Xi chairs summit
EXTRAORDINARY JOURNEY Above pic: Chinese President Xi Jinping chairs the ASEAN-China Special Summit to Commemorate the 30th Anniversary of ASEAN-China Dialogue
Noting that China-ASEAN dialogue Relations via video link in Beijing, capital of China.
relations have gone through an extraordi- Institute. ment. COMMUNITY WITH SHARED FUTURE
nary journey over the past three decades, At the summit, Xi announced that China "China has a vast domestic market that Xi made five proposals for developing
Xi summarized the four-pronged experi-
ences gained over the past 30 years, is ready to provide ASEAN with another 1.5 will always be open to ASEAN countries. future relations between China and
including mutual respect, win-win cooper- billion U.S. dollars of development China is ready to import more quality ASEAN, including building a peaceful, safe
ation, mutual assistance and inclusiveness. assistance in the next three years to products from ASEAN countries, including and secure, prosperous, beautiful and
support ASEAN countries' fight against buying up to 150 billion U.S. dollars worth amicable home together.
The two sides have accommodated each COVID-19 and boost economic recovery. of agricultural products from ASEAN in the
other's major concerns, properly handled next five years," he said. "China stands ready to work with ASEAN
disagreements and problems by seeking Xi said China is ready to open a dialogue to grasp the overriding trend, remove
common ground while shelving differenc- with ASEAN on climate response, increase PEOPLE-TO-PEOPLE EXCHANGES interference, share opportunities and
es, taken the lead in establishing free-trade policy communication and experience Despite the impact of COVID-19, the promote shared prosperity. We will imple-
areas, promoted high-quality Belt and sharing, and synergize plans for sustaina- ment in earnest our Comprehensive
Road cooperation, and jointly concluded ble development. people-to-people and cultural exchanges Strategic Partnership, and make new
and signed the Regional Comprehensive between China and ASEAN have strides toward building a closer China-ASE-
Economic Partnership (RCEP). "China is ready to launch the Action Plan maintained a strong momentum. AN community with a shared future," he
on China-ASEAN Green Agriculture to said.
China and ASEAN have stood with each make our countries' agricultural sector The personnel exchanges exceeded 65
other through the Asian financial crisis, the more resilient and sustainable," he said. million in 2019, and there were nearly ASEAN leaders attending the summit
international financial crisis, COVID-19 and 4,500 flights between China and Southeast hailed the formal establishment of a
other challenges, and forged friendships ECONOMIC, TRADE COOPERATION Asia every week. Meanwhile, the two sides comprehensive strategic partnership
that are open, not exclusionary, with an Economic and trade cooperation has have exchanged more than 200,000 between ASEAN and China, saying it is a
inclusive attitude. students and formed more than 200 pairs milestone of great historical significance.
been a highlight in China-ASEAN coopera- of sister cities.
"China was, is, and will always be tion. Trade volume between the two sides ASEAN is willing to make joint efforts
ASEAN's good neighbor, good friend and jumped from less than 8 billion U.S. dollars "We need to actively consider the orderly with China to strengthen all-round cooper-
good partner," Xi said. in 1991 to 684.6 billion U.S. dollars in 2020, resumption of the flow of people post the ation, usher in the next 30 years of better
an increase of more than 80 times. The COVID-19 pandemic and continue to ties, and make greater contributions to
He reaffirmed that China will unswerv- two sides became each other's largest promote exchanges in areas such as regional peace, stability and prosperity,
ingly treat ASEAN as a high priority in its trading partner for the first time in 2020. culture, tourism, think tanks, media and they said.
neighborhood diplomacy, unswervingly women to build better understanding,
support ASEAN unity and ASEAN Commu- Xi called for harnessing the role of the bring hearts closer together and form one To uphold regional peace and stability, Xi
nity building, unswervingly support ASEAN RCEP, beginning work toward a new round big family between our peoples," Xi said. called for pursuing dialogue instead of
centrality in the regional architecture, and of upgrading of the China-ASEAN Free confrontation, building partnerships
unswervingly support ASEAN in playing a Trade Area at an early date, and enhancing He said China will enhance cooperation instead of alliances, and making concerted
bigger role in regional and international the level of trade and investment liberali- with ASEAN in vocational education and efforts to address the various negative
affairs. zation and facilitation. mutual recognition of diplomas, increase factors that might threaten or undermine
the number of recipients of the China-ASE- peace.
JOINTLY TACKLING CHALLENGES Signed in November last year, the RCEP, a AN Young Leaders Scholarship, and organ-
With the COVID-19 pandemic still raging mega trade deal between 10 ASEAN ize events like youth camps. The Chinese president also called for
member states plus China, Japan, the deepening cooperation in areas such as
across the world, Xi announced that China Republic of Korea, Australia and New China will launch the China-ASEAN defense, counter-terrorism, joint maritime
is ready to work with ASEAN countries to Zealand, will enter into force on Jan. 1, Science, Technology and Innovation search, rescue and exercise, countering
jointly build a "health shield" for the 2022. Enhancing Program, and will provide 1,000 transnational crime, and disaster manage-
region. items of advanced and applicable technol- ment.
"These are economically very dire times ogy to ASEAN and support a program for
Under this initiative, China is ready to in the aftermath of the pandemic..., and 300 young scientists from ASEAN to come "Joint efforts are needed to safeguard
donate an additional 150 million doses of the RCEP is one such accelerating agent to China for exchanges in the next five stability in the South China Sea and make it
COVID vaccines to ASEAN countries to because it enables us to practice a broader years. a sea of peace, friendship and coopera-
support higher vaccination rates in and deeper degree of free trade of both tion," he said.
countries in the region. goods and services," said Oh Ei Sun, princi- "We support the establishment of a
pal advisor for Malaysia's Pacific Research China-ASEAN Knowledge Network for A joint statement on "comprehensive
China will also contribute an additional 5 Center. Development," Xi said, adding that China is strategic partnership for peace, security,
million U.S. dollars to the COVID-19 ASEAN also ready to strengthen exchange and prosperity and sustainable development"
Response Fund, step up joint vaccine Xi urged the two sides to expand cooper- cooperation with ASEAN on poverty reduc- was released during the summit.
production and technology transfer, and ation in new areas like digital and green tion to promote balanced and inclusive
collaborate on the research and develop- economy and build joint demonstration development. In the statement, the two sides empha-
ment of essential medicines, so as to help zones for economic innovative develop- sized the need to maintain and promote an
ASEAN increase self-reliance. environment conducive to the negotia-
tions on the Code of Conduct in the South
China will also support ASEAN in China Sea (COC), and look forward to the
strengthening primary-level public health early conclusion of an effective and
systems and cultivating human capital for substantive COC that is in accordance with
ASEAN to build a stronger capacity in international law, including the 1982
response to major public health emergen- United Nations Convention on the Law of
cies. the Sea, within a mutually-agreed timeline.
"China has played various crucial roles in
mitigating the pandemic domestically and
regionally through vaccine and medical
supplies to ASEAN countries, which helps
facilitate the process of reopening borders,
resume other economic activities and
strengthen the resilience of supply chains,"
said Thong Mengdavid, a research fellow
at the Phnom Penh-based Asian Vision
05DECEMBER 2021
Wang Yi and Malaysian Foreign Minister Dato' Saifuddin Abdullah
Co-chair the First China-Malaysia High Level Committee Meeting
State Councilor and Foreign Minister
Wang Yi and Malaysian Foreign Minister
Dato' Saifuddin Abdullah co-chaired the
First China-Malaysia High Level Committee
Meeting in Anji County, Zhejiang Province.
Wang Yi said China and Malaysia are
good neighbors of mutual trust and good
partners for win-win cooperation. In
recent years, bilateral relations have been
continuously deepened and improved
through joint efforts to fight the COVID-19
pandemic and promote economic
recovery. Not long ago, President Xi
Jinping, Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob
and other leaders of ASEAN countries
jointly attended the ASEAN-China Special
Summit to Commemorate the 30th
Anniversary of ASEAN-China Dialogue
Relations and announced to establish the
China-ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic
Partnership, setting a new milestone in the
history of bilateral relations. Against this
backdrop, the China-Malaysia High Level
Committee holding its first meeting is
well-timed. Both sides should give full play
to the role of this mechanism platform,
continue to deepen strategic mutual trust, Above pic: Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi (R) co-chairs the first meeting of the high-level committee on China-Malaysia
cooperation with Malaysian Foreign Minister Saifuddin Abdullah (L) in Anji, east China's Zhejiang Province.
make overall plans for cooperation in
various fields, and take concrete actions to
implement the important outcomes of the
ASEAN-China commemorative summit, so ship that cannot be separated by moun- crimes, so as to jointly make positive products to bring more tangible benefits to
as to promote the China-Malaysia compre- tains and seas. Developing relations with contributions to regional peace and the two peoples.
hensive strategic partnership to a new China is a priority of Malaysia's diplomacy. stability. The fourth is to focus on common
level in the post-pandemic era. The Malaysian side is ready to take the The second is to continue to promote development and promote the Global
Saifuddin extended his congratulations First High Level Committee Meeting of the anti-pandemic cooperation to jointly forge Development Initiative (GDI). The Malay-
on the 100th anniversary of the founding two sides as an opportunity to deepen a healthy shield. The two sides should sian side takes a positive view and looks
of the Communist Party of China, sincerely practical cooperation in all areas and inject explore cooperation in the research and forward to participating in the GDI
wishes and firmly believes that China will new and strong impetus into bilateral development of upgraded vaccines and proposed by President Xi Jinping to
continue to make brilliant achievements. relations. specific anti-COVID drugs, strengthen contribute to the sustainable development
He said it is admirable that China has Both sides agreed to build a more solid cooperation in the entire chain of vaccine of the world. The two sides will focus on
successfully won the battle against the China-Malaysia comprehensive strategic clinical trials, procurement and produc- promoting cooperation in the two major
COVID-19 pandemic and played a leading partnership in the post-pandemic era and tion, and deepen cooperation in the field areas of digital economy and green
role in the global fight against the pandem- reached a broad consensus on key cooper- of traditional Chinese medicine. development, and jointly seize the
ic. The Malaysian side appreciates China ation priorities for the next stage. The third is to deepen the Belt and Road development opportunities in the
for providing the support of vaccines and The first is to intensify strategic commu- cooperation and accelerate economic post-pandemic era.
anti-pandemic materials in a timely nication and deepen political mutual trust. recovery. Both sides should step up the The fifth is to enrich people-to-people
manner and is ready to strengthen cooper- The two sides should maintain high-level formulation of cooperation plans, and take exchanges and promote people-to-people
ation with China in vaccines and drugs exchanges, coordinate and cooperate on the 10th anniversary of the "Two bonds. Both sides need to explore new
research and development. Malaysia major issues in a timely manner, and Countries, Twin Parks" project as an oppor- modes of cultural and tourism exchanges
highly appreciates China's important safeguard the common interests of the tunity to build a demonstration zone for and cooperation, and strengthen coopera-
contributions to the full success of the two countries. Both sides should make economic and trade innovation and tion in education, think tanks, films, sports
ASEAN-China commemorative summit and good use of mechanisms, such as development, and a high-quality demon- and other areas. The two sides should
looks forward to pushing for greater China-Malaysia strategic consultation, stration zone for Belt and Road capacity carry out personnel exchanges in a
development of bilateral relations. Malay- strategic defense consultation, and joint cooperation. China is willing to continue to prudent and orderly manner and strive to
sia and China enjoy a time-honored friend- working group on countering transnational expand imports of high-quality Malaysian resume frequent visits at an early date.
Malaysia supports China in hosting the
Beijing Olympic Winter Games.
The sixth is to lead East Asian cooperation
and maintain regional peace. The two
sides should implement the outcomes and
consensus of the ASEAN-China commemo-
rative summit, promptly upgrade the
comprehensive strategic partnership
development plan, deepen regional
economic integration, accelerate the
consultation on the Code of Conduct in the
South China Sea, and promote China-ASE-
AN relations to achieve greater develop-
ment from a new starting point.
After the meeting, the two foreign
ministers jointly met the press and
answered questions.
During the meeting, competent authorities
of the two sides renewed the memoran-
dum of China-Malaysia cooperation on
traditional medicine and other coopera-
tion agreements. The basketball associa-
Above pic: During his two-day official visit to China, foreign minister Saifuddin Abdullah and his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi agreed to expand areas tions of the two countries signed a letter of
of collaboration in the post-Covid-19 era intent on cooperation.
06 DECEMBER 2021
Saifuddin: China plans to allow
Malaysian students to return
and continue their studies
China is planning to allow international "He (Wang Yi) did not say when the [the Above pic: Foreign Minister Datuk Saifuddin Abdullah
students, including from Malaysia, to process of return of] students can start,
return to the country to resume their but from what he told me, they want the "Since they have formed a network, so I traditional medicine.
studies, said Foreign Minister Datuk matter to be implemented as soon as offer help to facilitate the relationship with Apart from that, he said there are more
Saifuddin Abdullah. possible," he told the Malaysian media, Malaysian students who are waiting to
here, on Saturday. return to study in China," he said. than 100 Malaysian students who are still
He said the matter was among those in China at this time.
discussed in the inaugural meeting of the Saifuddin said there were about 8,000 According to Saifuddin, the students are
Malaysia-China High Level Committee on Malaysian students studying in China, but pursuing various fields of study including Saifuddin is on a two-day official visit to
post-Covid-19 cooperation co-chaired by they had to return home when Covid-19 science and technology, language, and China starting Friday, at the invitation of
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. began to spread in the country last year. Wang Yi.
According to Saifuddin, priority will be He said Malaysia is currently still waiting
given to final year students and those who for the Chinese government’s announce-
need to use laboratory facilities for fields ment on the conditions and processes
of study involving research that cannot be regarding the return of students to their
done online. respective universities.
“He (Wang Yi) stated that they have a list As most of them are private students
of countries of students studying in China without sponsors, he said the ministry will
and he informed me that Malaysia is work with Malaysian alumni with informa-
among the highest on the list. tion on the students.
VTL-Air kicks o at KLIA for cannon salute. “This wristband is then removed as the
Malaysia-Singapore travel Airport operator Malaysia Airports passenger exits the airport,” it said.
Malaysia’s main international gateway travel for fully vaccinated individuals. Holdings Bhd (MAHB) said KLIA and Kuala MAHB chairman Datuk Seri Dr Zambry
Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) The first VTL flight from Singapore Lumpur International Airport 2 (klia2) Abd Kadir, when met by reporters after
implemented the Malaysia-Singapore would be receiving six VTL flights in total observing the VTL process, said MAHB
Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) by Air ferrying 240 passengers onboard today, carrying over 1,300 passengers from would ensure that the quality of service
(VTL-Air) today, allowing quarantine-free Singapore Airlines SQ108 landed at KLIA at Singapore. remained at the highest level as the airport
9.25 am and was greeted with a water started receiving more international
The six flights are operated by Singapore passengers.
Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, Malin-
do Air, Jetstar Asia and Scoot, it said in a “We will ensure that passengers are
statement released in conjunction with a satisfied with every process they go
special welcoming ceremony for the through and we will improve the standard
inaugural VTL flight today. operating procedure (SOP) from time to
time,” he said.
On Nov 8, Prime Minister Datuk Seri
Ismail Sabri Yaakob and his Singapore Asked if concerns over the Omicron
counterpart Lee Hsien Loong announced COVID-19 variant would affect the VTL-Air
that Malaysia and Singapore would launch implementation, he said MAHB was
a VTL between Changi Airport and KLIA on working closely with the Ministry of Health
Nov 29 (today). and other relevant authorities to prevent
the variant from spreading to Malaysia.
Upon arrival, the inaugural VTL flight “The variant definitely raises our concern.
passengers were directed to a dedicated We have to look into this (Omicron variant)
screening zone located at Gate 10. carefully,” he said.
MAHB said VTL-Air passengers would be The World Health Organisation (WHO)
processed through dedicated immigration on Friday declared the new strain a
lanes, and the Immigration Department of “variant of concern,” naming it Omicron.
Malaysia has allocated 11 counters at the
KLIA main terminal and four counters at Several countries have now banned
klia2 for this purpose. flights from over half a dozen southern
African nations, including South Africa,
MAHB said all VTL-Air passengers are Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozam-
fitted with a blue wristband upon arrival bique, Lesotho and Eswatini over fears of
for quick identification by the airport the new variant.
community on their quarantine-free
status.
Johor Causeway nally reopens after 20 months of COVID-induced closure
One of the busiest border crossings in welcomed by Lee who was accompanied In announcing the VTL-Land scheme on disembarkation point in Singapore.
the world, the Johor–Singapore Causeway, by his four Cabinet ministers. Nov 24, Malaysia’s Prime Minister’s Office Travellers allowed to take part in this
was officially reopened today with the said that the initial stage will be limited to
launch of the land Vaccinated Travel Lane Ismail Sabri is accompanied by Senior only bus transportation with a daily quota scheme are Malaysia and Singapore
(VTL-Land). Minister of International Trade and not exceeding 1,500 travellers. citizens and Permanent Residents as well
Industry Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali; as holders of Malaysia and Singapore
It was jointly launched by Malaysian Minister of Foreign Affairs Datuk Saifuddin Other modes of land transportation will Long-term Pass.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Abdullah; Minister of Transport Datuk Seri be included in stages with the daily quota
Yaakob and his Singapore counterpart Lee Dr Wee Ka Siong; and Johor Menteri Besar of travellers to be increased on weekly The launch of the VTL-Land also
Hsien Loong at the Woodlands checkpoint. Datuk Hasni Mohammad, and senior basis. coincides with the VTL-Air.
officials.
The 97-year old Causeway which also The initiative aims to facilitate quaran- The VTL-Air between Changi Airport and
known as Tambak Johor, was closed for Lee meanwhile, was accompanied by tine-free, seamless cross-border move- Kuala Lumpur International Airport was
400,000-odd travellers daily since Senior Minister and Coordinating Minister ment integrating health protocol, security, announced on Nov 8.
mid-March 2020 to curb the spread of the for National Security Teo Chee Hean; and immigration clearance.
deadly COVID-19 virus. Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Malaysia and Singapore have achieved
Balakrishnan; Minister for Trade and The Singapore-bound designated more than 95 per cent rate of the vaccinat-
Ismail Sabri made a momentous journey Industry Gan Kim Yong; as well as Minister VTL-Land bus services will use Larkin ed adult population and this has offered
by crossing the one-kilometre bridge for Transport and Minister-in-charge of Sentral Bus Terminal as the boarding and opportunities for both countries to reopen
entering the republic from Johor Bahru this Trade Relations, S Iswaran. disembarkation point in Malaysia, whereas the land border in a gradual, safe, system-
morning before he and his delegation were Queen Street Terminal as the boarding and atic, and sustainable manner.
07DECEMBER 2021
Pharmaniaga to supply Sinovac booster dose to private market
Pharmaniaga Berhad (Pharmaniaga) dose, as outlined by the COVID-19 Immuni- dose, indicating a longer duration of a well-established technology of more
will be supplying Sinovac COVID-19 boost- sation Task Force – Booster (CITF-B). protection from COVID-19 and new than 40 years that is also being used
er dose to designated private hospitals and variants. commonly in many types of vaccines,
clinics soon, following the conditional He noted that a number of Chinese currently available in the market including
approval by the Drug Control Authority provinces and cities have started giving “Sinovac COVID-19 vaccine is safe as it is for polio, Hepatitis A and rabies,” he said.
(DCA) yesterday. COVID-19 vaccine boosters to people who developed using inactivated virus which is
received their first two shots at least six
Pharmaniaga Group Managing Director months ago.
Datuk Zulkarnain Md Eusope said the
vaccine will be available at selected private “In China, the booster shot roll-out
hospitals and clinics as an option for comes after close to 80 per cent of the
individuals who wish to have the Sinovac population has been vaccinated, to give
COVID-19 vaccine booster dose for the optimum protection against the virus
themselves. and new variants.
“We hope with this effort, we can see our “According to a research in China, boost-
country revive it’s economy and help er shot given at an interval of six to 12
Malaysians weather the COVID-19 months after the second dose led to a
pandemic, thus ensuring the well-being of strong boost in immune response, with
the people, business continuity and most geometric mean titers (GMTs) increasing
importantly saving lives,” he said in a to approximately 140 in adults and even
statement today. higher in the elderly aged above 60 years,”
he said.
Zulkarnain added that the Sinovac
COVID-19 booster dose has been approved He said the GMT of six months after the
for individuals aged 18 years and above third dose is higher than the peak of the
who have received the same type of second dose and added that the studies
vaccine (homologous) and will be adminis- also showed higher persistence of antibod-
tered three to six months after the second ies of up to 20-fold, six months after the
booster dose compared to the second
Hajiji: Sabah to allow entry of fully “ Tourists from the peninsula or president Datuk Tan Kok Leong.
vaccinated visitors from Dec 1 anywhere, who come to Sabah from Dec 1 He added that the state government had
need not undergo the swab test as long as
Sabah will allow visitors who have been Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor. as they are fully vaccinated,” he told the implemented the Sabah Tourism Recovery
fully vaccinated to enter the state without He said this was decided as the state is media after the launch of the Matta Fair Plan for domestic and international
having to undergo COVID-19 screening, Exhibition here today. segments to improve tourism promotion,
beginning Dec 1, said Sabah Chief Minister already in Phase 4 of the National Recovery including market shifting during the
Plan. Hajiji said the state was ready to receive pandemic.
visitors by offering special and attractive
tourist destinations, adding that tourism The Sabah Tourism Board (STB) has also
sector could be revived with strict adher- collaborated with tourism industry players
ence to standard operating procedures. to hold virtual engagements, travel expos,
promotions, and training on destination
Meanwhile, Hajiji said Sabah was fully updates.
prepared for international arrivals as soon
as Malaysia reopens its borders next year. “This includes re-establishing trade and
tourist confidence through business to
“By Nov 2021, there are already 266 business (B2B) and government to govern-
weekly direct flights into Sabah from Kuala ment (G2G), with several countries includ-
Lumpur, Johor Bahru, Penang, Kota Bharu, ing China, Korea, Norway, Indonesia,
Labuan, and Sarawak, with a total capacity Brunei, India, Dubai, Italy, Kazakhstan, and
of 43,000 seats. Turkey.
“Within Sabah, there are 123 weekly “The STB is also working with airlines and
flights with a total capacity of 16,720 seats assisting them in re-establishing direct
connecting Kota Kinabalu, Lahad Datu, flights for domestic and international
Sandakan, and Tawau,” he said in his travel,” he said.
speech.
Hajiji added that the return of the MATTA
Also present were Sabah Tourism, Fair was significant as it signified the begin-
Culture and Environment Minister, Datuk ning of the recovery phase for the tourism
Jafry Ariffin, Sabah Special Tasks Minister, industry after the onslaught of the
Datuk Mohd Arifin Mohd Arif and MATTA COVID-19 pandemic for nearly two years.
Malaysia Airlines to increase
ight frequency to Sarawak
from Dec 11
Malaysia Airlines has received approval remaining seat availability. When more between 98 per cent and 100 per cent, in 2021.
from the Sarawak Disaster Management capacity is available in the market, fares view of the upcoming holiday season. The airline, between Oct 10 and 31 this
Committee (SDMC) to operate additional will naturally go down.
flights to Sarawak, for the period of Dec 11 It also stated for the December travel year, has also introduced a promo fare of
to Jan 5. “Malaysia Airlines will continue to adjust period, Malaysia Airlines filed an average RM109 one-way for the travel period
the capacity or frequency as advised by fare of RM350 from Kuala Lumpur to between October 2021 and April 21, next
The airline, in a statement today, said SDMC. Customers are encouraged to book Kuching, one-way, beginning October year.
that for the Kuala Lumpur-Kuching route, their flight tickets early to be able to obtain
the frequency of flights will be increased a lower fare,” it said.
from 21 to 35 weekly, while for the Kuala
Lumpur-Bintulu route, Kuala Lumpur-Miri It also said that since Nov 1, Malaysia
route and Kuala Lumpur-Sibu route, the Airlines has been operating a limited
weekly flight frequencies will be increased service of 21 flights weekly to Kuching, as
from seven to 14. approved by the SDMC, compared with 63
flights weekly in December 2019 prior to
“As airlines execute dynamic pricing COVID-19.
based on supply and demand, fares may
vary depending on the date, time and It said that on the week of Nov 22, 2021,
bookings achieved a load factor of
08 DECEMBER 2021
Malaysia-Singapore VTL continues despite detection of Omicron case
Above pic: Minister of Health, YB Khairy Jamaluddin countries at the international checkpoint
in Kuala Lumpur International Airport
The air and land Vaccinated Travel Lane on a daily basis and co-ordinate our result of genome sequencing conducted. (KLIA) would be required to wear a digital
(VTL) between Singapore and Malaysia responses accordingly,” he told a media In the meantime, Khairy said the tempo- tracker device during the Order For Super-
goes on despite the country recording its conference on the development of vision And Observation period (quaran-
first case of positive COVID-19 Omicron COVID-19, here today. rary ban on travellers from eight countries, tine).
variant of concern (VOC), said Minister of namely, South Africa, Botswana, Eswatini,
Health (MOH) Khairy Jamaluddin. Malaysia and Singapore launched the air Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, Zimba- He said a list of high-risk countries would
and land VTL on Monday to allow travellers bwe and Malawi will continue. be provided by MOH through risk evalua-
He said all travellers who arrived in who had completed their vaccinations to tions.
Malaysia via air and land VTL are required enter each other’s country without having For international tourists participating in
to conduct COVID-19 self-test on the third to undergo quarantine upon arrival in the Langkawi Tourism Bubble, travellers Khairy said the people need not panic at
and seventh day after arrival. Malaysia and Singapore. arriving from all countries must undergo the emergence of the Omicron variant in
additional COVID-19 detection tests, the country because COVID-19 preventive
He said he had contacted his Singapore- Malaysia recorded its first Omicron namely, on the third and fifth day from the measures enforced currently were seen as
an counterpart, Ong Ye Kung, following the variant case involving a student from South date of arrival, with professional RTK-Ag effective to prevent the spread of the
detection of the Omicron variant case. Africa studying at a private university in testing. pandemic.
Ipoh who was confirmed positive for the
“We reaffirm that the VTL will continue variant of concern (VOC) on Dec 2 as a As an additional preventive measure, he “The existing preventive measures,
and we will continue to update each other said travellers arriving from high-risk standard operating procedure (SOP) and
guidelines provided are very, very
stringent.
“If we notice, other countries which are
starting to tighten their measures due to
Omicron, are actually implementing what
Malaysia has implemented.
“I feel we are among the most careful
countries in terms of prevention. We still
have quarantine, wearing face mask,
contact tracing system which I feel is quite
thorough,” he said, adding that the people
were encouraged to continue practice
TRIIS (Test, Report, Isolate, Inform and
Seek), and obtain COVID-19 vaccinations.
In the meantime, Khairy said the
campaign on giving booster doses would
be intensified and MOH is targeting at least
75 per cent of the population who had
completed two doses of vaccine, to receive
the booster dose.
Booster shot requires for ‘fully vaccinated status’ in EU COVID Pass
Only people who have received booster national authorities to administer the Agency also reported that EU Commission COVID-19 vaccines delivered by the end of
shots can be considered fully vaccinated, booster doses, it reported Reynders President Ursula von der Leyen called on the week.
according to the new recommendations of added. EU citizens to take their booster shots six
the European Commission. months after the original vaccination. The COVID-19 certificate was originally
The EU executive body revealed on Thurs- The announcement came a day after issued by the EU to facilitate free travel
day its updates for the COVID-19 certificate Andrea Ammon, the head of the ECDC, “Boosters give us an even higher level of within the bloc, but it is also used as a pass
granting free travel within the bloc, and warned that the coronavirus situation protection than the original vaccination. to grant access to restaurants, cultural
advised nine-month validity for the pass would deteriorate in the next two months They will prevent many hospitalizations venues, and even public transport in some
since the primary vaccination series, unless the bloc introduces new measures and deaths,” she said. EU member states.
according to Anadolu Agency. and raises the vaccination rate.
Von der Leyen also announced that the The document features a QR-code that
“In today’s recommendation, we are In a separate video statement, Anadolu bloc would have one billion doses of helps authorities to determine the holder’s
clarifying the fact that a person who has COVID status.
received a booster jab after the first set of
vaccinations should be considered to be The certificate proves if a person had
fully vaccinated,” EU Commissioner for received all the recommended doses of a
Justice Didier Reynders told reporters. vaccine approved by the European
Medicine Agency, had a negative PCR-test
He explained that the decision was based over the past 72 hours, or recovered from
on the scientific opinion of the European the disease over the last six months, the
Centre for Disease Prevention and Control report said.
(ECDC) which confirmed that the efficacy
of COVID-19 vaccines decreased after six The European Commission’s recommen-
months. dation on travel with the COVID pass is not
legally binding for the EU governments,
The nine-month validity period for COVID they can impose restrictions on travelers
certificates allows extra three months for from other member states based on the
epidemiological situation, it added.
Malaysians banned from travelling to seven countries including South Africa
Malaysians are banned from travelling (four) and Hong Kong (two), however, regardless of their vaccination status. The 32 spike protein mutations, double the
to seven countries, namely South Africa, based on genomic surveillance, to date, quarantine cannot be done at home,” he number of Delta variant, and to date, there
Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozam- there were no reports of the variant in told a press conference here today. is no available data on its incubation
bique, Namibia and Zimbabwe following Malaysia. period, symptoms and infectivity rate with
the emergence of the new COVID-19 Khairy said samples would also be taken the World Health Organisation (WHO)
strain. “Temporary restriction on all foreign from all travellers arriving from the seven currently monitoring the developments.
nationals with a history of travel within 14 countries for genomic surveillance.
Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin said it days to Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, “The new variant has been categorised as
was a government initiative in strengthen- Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa and He said continuous monitoring for variant under monitoring (VUM). The
ing prevention and border control Zimbabwe. genomic surveillance was carried out by a Health Ministry views the existence of this
measures, including for travellers arriving consortium comprising the Health Ministry new variant seriously and will increase the
in the country, effective tomorrow. “Malaysian citizens and permanent through the Institute of Medical Research genomic surveillance on individuals
residents returning home after visiting (IMR); the Science, Technology and Innova- arriving from affected countries,” he said.
He said three countries had reported those countries are allowed to enter tion Ministry as well as the Higher Educa-
cases of the new B.1.1.529 variant, namely Malaysia but must undergo a mandatory tion Ministry.
South Africa with 77 cases, Botswana 14-day quarantine at quarantine stations
According to reports, the new variant has
09DECEMBER 2021
Hasni: Discussions on sea VTL expected as early as January
Above pic: Menteri Besar of Johor, YAB Dato' Haji Hasni bin Mohammad and comprehensive impact especially to
the tourism sector.
Discussions on the opening of sea at the Malaysia-Singapore Joint Ministerial sea VTL could be realised in line with the
Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) connecting Committee (JMC) as early as next month. aspiration of the state government to “The Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal is
the Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, Singapore stimulate the tourism sector in the state. already completed but not yet operational.
to the Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal near Menteri Besar Datuk Hasni Mohammad So, the government is still waiting for the
Kota Tinggi are expected to be carried out said the state government hoped the He said that, if the sea VTL could be decision of Khazanah Nasional which owns
discussions on the implementation of the implemented, it would give an effective the ferry terminal on the form of co-opera-
tion and other matters which were all still
being discussed.
“But what is important is that the
government allows this sea VTL following
discussions between the two countries,”
he told a media conference after opening
the Iskandar Apprenticeship Programme,
here today.
He said this when asked to comment on
discussions to open sea VTL.
He said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail
Sabri Yaakob, in his official visit to
Singapore on Nov 29, had discussed the
opening of the sea VTL which was received
well by Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien
Loong.
“Prime Minister Lee also gave his
response that the opening of the sea can
be considered. So, through the JMC,
maybe the discussions can be speeded
up,” he said.
On Nov 29, Ismail Sabri, and Lee,
launched the land VTL between Malaysia
and Singapore at Woodlands Checkpoint.
Radzi Jidin: COVID-19 infection in schools under control
The COVID-19 infection involving positive for COVID-19 yesterday after symptoms. He said schools were required to report
students following the opening of the showing symptoms since Nov 28, apart “So for students who have not yet immediately on positive COVID-19 cases
face-to-face school sessions for states from three teachers from Maktab Rendah involving their students or staff.
under Phase Four of the National Recovery Sains MARA (MRSM) Pendang who also received the vaccine, but are eligible for it,
Plan (PPN) is monitored accordingly, said tested positive for the virus and were I appeal to the parents to bring their In another development, Radzi said the
Senior Education Minister Datuk Dr Radzi ordered to undergo home surveillance children for the vaccination for the safety ministry was now focusing on resolving
Jidin. order (HSO). of their own children. several key issues, including to ensure that
the opening of schools could be imple-
He said the situation was under control Radzi said the cause of the infection at “This also goes for teachers who have mented safely and in an orderly manner, as
considering the total number of schools the schools concerned was still under not received the vaccination yet,” he well as to improve the educational
nationwide, which is more than 10,000. investigation by the respective District added. infrastructure.
Health Offices.
“Generally, in the current situation where Meanwhile, Radzi said the ministry “We want to focus on making sure that
we are in the transition to the endemic “In the context of these schools , we are would take stern action against school our children can study in a conducive
phase, we know that this virus is all around very meticulous about hostels…very management that try to conceal positive environment,” he added.
us. Alhamdulillah, the SOPs (standard detailed SOPs are implemented because COVID-19 case involving its teachers and
operating procedures) are effective and the risk is when there is a case, the poten- students.
work well,” he told reporters after handing tial for infection is there.
over of digital education contributions at
the Institute of Teachers Education, Darul “In hostels, the risk of spreading is higher
Aman Campus, Jitra. than in day schools, because in dormitories
they are there all day, sitting together with
He was commenting on the current friends without wearing the face mask. We
situation of the pandemic at Sekolah Seri will continue to monitor to ensure that the
Puteri, a residential school in Cyberjaya, situation is orderly and safe for students,”
which was ordered to close temporarily he added.
after 135 new COVID-19 positive cases
involving its students and staff were Radzi, however, said he was glad that
detected. almost all the students affected by the
COVID-19 infection had completed their
The media also reported that 24 male vaccination and were with in category one
students of Maktab Mahmud Sik tested (asymptomatic) and category 2A with mild
Omicron: SOP tightened on entry of foreign workers
The government has tightened the country,” he said at a press conference after and follows all the stipulated SOPs for the not be able to do their jobs without having
existing standard operating procedures attending the Mahabbah Rasulullah admission of employees and tightens the insiders in the Immigration Department.
(SOPs) on the entry of foreign workers, ceremony in conjunction with Maulidur SOPs agreed by the NSC,” he said.
following Malaysia’s first positive case of Rasul at Selama District Council Hall in It was reported that Malaysia recorded the “Some of the department staff, whether
COVID-19 Omicron variant in Perak. Sungai Bayor near here today. first positive case of COVID-19 Omicron officers or ordinary employees, will face
Home Minister Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin variant, involving a student from South action and some have been charged in
said the SOP was tightened in accordance He said foreign workers who entered the Africa at a private university in Ipoh. court,” he said.
with the agreement of the National Security country are not exempted from the rules Last Wednesday, the Home Ministry (KDN)
Council (MKN) to ensure that every individ- including ensuring they are vaccinated first Asked about the cartel issue at the revealed that it had received a report
ual who entered the country did not carry and undergo testing and quarantine within Immigration Department, Hamzah said his regarding the existence of cartel activities in
the dangerous virus. the stipulated period before being allowed department had asked the Immigration the Immigration Department involving
to work in plantations and other sectors. director-general to take action against staff officers at various levels. The cartel’s
“We do not know who may have the virus found to be involved in the syndicate. involvement is not only related to depart-
and therefore the Ministry of Health (MOH) “All employers should also accept this mental promotion matters but is also said to
conducts tests on people who enter the fact which is important to protect the “I already knew that this cartel is a group use immigration officers for their own ends.
people’s health. The government is careful that works with syndicates. Syndicates will
10 DECEMBER 2021
Azmin: Malaysia’s export value
expected to hit RM1.2 trn in 2021
The country’s export value is projected reopen the borders of districts, states and Above pic: Senior Minister cum International Trade and Industry Minister,
to reach RM1.2 trillion this year, Senior the country has brought back confidence Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali
Minister cum International Trade and among local and foreign investors to
Industry Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed continue investing in the country,” he told target proves that foreign investors are tem, as well as investment policy, namely
Azmin Ali said. a press conference after attending the confident in the country’s business ecosys- the National Investment Aspirations.
“Selangor Semarak Prihatin” programme
He said the goal set out under the 12th at the Kajang District Police Headquarters
Malaysia Plan (12MP) was for export value here today.
performance to hit RM1.24 trillion but it
could be achieved four years ahead of the On Malaysia’s investment performance
target. for the period of September-November,
Azmin said the country recorded invest-
The minister said it was more gratifying ments of more than RM300 billion,
when the country recorded RM114 billion exceeding the target of RM270 billion set
worth of exports for the period of October out by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail
this year which was the highest value ever Sabri Yaakob.
accomplished.
The minister said the achievement of the
“This proves the government’s move to
Above pic: Communications and Multimedia Minister, Tan Sri Annuar Musa ties (PwD) and the B50 group,” he said. Malaysian Administrative Modernisation
He, meanwhile, urged universities and and Management Planning Unit (MAMPU)
Annuar: Visual informatics to drive and the Malaysian Communications and
growth of traditional, new industries centres of excellence to collaborate with Multimedia Commission (MCMC).
the industry and government to enrich
Visual informatics is undoubtedly one of (IVIC’21) hosted by Universiti Tenaga digital education and create new Annuar said Malaysia had embraced new
the key elements that will enhance the Nasional (UNITEN) near here today, programmes to accelerate the country’s technologies in both the public and private
growth of many traditional and new Annuar, however, stressed that any economic growth. sectors, which included the development
industries, said Communications and technology adopted must take the users of e-government, telehealth and multipur-
Multimedia Minister Tan Sri Annuar Musa. into consideration. This is because Malaysia still lacks the pose smart card, as well as the establish-
human resource technology talent supply ment of smart schools with more than
These include the agriculture, manufac- “I feel that we need to put ourselves back and demand to fit new and future jobs that 4,500 companies and institutions having
turing, healthcare and communication on reality check. We need to make sure match the expected skills and knowledge received the MSC (Multimedia Super
sectors and areas such as energy informat- that whatever technology we adopt has in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) Corridor) status.
ics, drone technology, smart technology taken into consideration the people that era, he said.
and cyber security, he said. are going to use it, especially the marginal- “As of 2020, the MSC Malaysia
ised society such as the Orang Asli, those in He added that through the 12th Malaysia programme has generated revenue of
In his speech at the 7th International Sabah and Sarawak, Persons with Disabili- Plan (12MP), the government’s digital more than RM500 billion while the digital
Visual Informatics Conference 2021 economy transformation plan included economy in Malaysia is targeted to achieve
injecting greater creativity, innovation and RM75 billion in gross national income
promotion of data science skills and contribution from the digital transforma-
computational thinking skills throughout tion initiatives by 2021,” he said.
the education system.
He said MDEC would also drive the
“This will equip students with knowl- development of MSC 2.0 in order to boost
edge, technology and higher-order the country’s digital economy and attract
thinking skills, as well as will-power and more digital investments.
transferable skills that will enable them to
be agile in order to move between Annuar also launched the UNITEN
industries and, thus, be more resilient to Research Roadmap 2021-2025, which will
new jobs,” he pointed out. become the main source of reference for
all researchers in the university to
As Malaysia moves towards being a synergise and synchronise efforts in
digital data-driven nation, Annuar said research, development, innovation and
many initiatives are being undertaken to commercialisation activities towards
leverage opportunities in emerging bringing UNITEN to become a global
technologies so as to attract investments energy-focused university in the next five
into the country. years.
These included the human capital The three-day IVIC’21, which kicked off
development in data science initiative, today, focuses on visualisation, engineer-
national data-sharing initiative and #Saya- ing, cyber security and machine learning
Digital movement by the government and energy informatics.
through various agencies such as Malaysia
Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), the
Saravanan: Over 250,000 M’sians employed through
MYFutureJobs portal this year
A total of 253,785 Malaysians have needed support from the government “Government initiatives like these have Above pic: Human Resources Minister,
successfully found work so far this year during that trying period, he said various helped the country recover from the Datuk Seri M. Saravanan
through national employment portal other initiatives were also implemented by effects of the pandemic,” he said when
MYFutureJobs, said Human Resources the government to ensure the people’s officiating the Socso Media Awards Night is being held for the first time, will be the
Minister Datuk Seri M. Saravanan. continued survival. which was also attended by Socso chief catalyst in strengthening the relationship
executive Datuk Sri Dr Mohammed Azman between the Ministry of Human Resources
He said the placements, undertaken by He said this includes Socso’s Wage Aziz Mohammed here tonight. and its agencies, especially Socso and the
the Social Security Organisation (Socso), Subsidy programme which had successful- media,” he said.
prove that the government has done its ly rescued many local companies from Meanwhile, Saravanan said the govern-
best to help the people. winding up and workers losing their jobs ment was aware of the media’s role in
and source of income. highlighting the government’s initiatives to
This is especially after thousands of help those impacted by the pandemic.
workers from various sectors including Apart from that, Saravanan said the
tourism and hospitality, aviation as well as Socso Employment Insurance Scheme “Contributions by media practitioners
construction, were severely impacted as a introduced in 2018 had also played a big can never be repaid in any form. Your
result of measures taken to contain the role in protecting retrenched workers and professionalism should be given due
COVID-19 pandemic, he said. ensuring financial stability during the recognition.
pandemic period.
Recognising the fact that the people “As such, I hope the event tonight, which
11DECEMBER 2021
DOSM: Malaysia needs to revisit agriculture sector, invest in modernisation
There is a need for Malaysia to revisit the processing activities. The decline was due to the commodity bles in Malaysia increased 0.9 per cent in
agriculture sector as a potential source of "Over a period of 28 years (1987-2015), sub-sector, especially oil palm, which 2020 with Pahang remaining the highest
employment opportunities and increase recorded a negative growth of 3.6 per cent producer with a contribution of 35.1 per
capital investment in modernising this Malaysia's dependency on imports for compared to 1.5 per cent in 2019. cent, followed by Johor (20.2 per cent) and
sector, said the Department of Statistics agricultural commodities increased to 13.7 Kelantan (12.5 per cent).
Malaysia (DOSM). per cent from 7.3 per cent," he said. Mohd Uzir said although the growth rate
of oil palm showed a decline, it was the Meanwhile, fruit production decreased
Chief Statistician Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir At the same time, the agriculture sector main contributor to the value added of the by 0.7 per cent during the same period,
Mahidin said this was in cognisance of the continued to contribute to the country agriculture sector accounting for RM36.9 with Johor as the highest producing state
significant impact brought by the through exports, especially by products billion or 37.1 per cent. in Malaysia with a contribution of 36.0 per
COVID-19 pandemic on agriculture produced from agricultural commodities cent, followed by Pahang (13 per cent) and
production and prices, which increases the such as palm oil, rubber and cocoa. "Though the production of fresh fruit Sarawak (11.2 per cent).
importance of food security. bunches (oil palm) was the highest among
Total agricultural exports increased from the agricultural commodities, its produc- As for the livestock sub-sector, he said
“Emphasis on ensuring the stability of RM115.5 billion in 2019 to RM118.6 billion tion decreased by 2.09 million tonnes or the number of livestock has increased
food supply is necessary especially for in 2020. 2.1 per cent, followed by natural rubber except for buffaloes, sheep and swine.
agricultural items that have inadequate and pepper, which recorded a decrease of
self-sufficiency ratio and high import The agriculture sector contributed 7.4 125,100 tonnes and 3,100 tonnes respec- Despite the increase in livestock popula-
dependency. per cent to the national Gross Domestic tively,” he said. tion, production has decreased except for
Product (GDP) in 2020, with the sector’s poultry meat, chicken/ duck egg as well as
"In addition, emphasis should also take growth contracting 2.2 per cent last year Mohd Uzir said the production of vegeta- fresh milk.
into account accessibility to food especially from a growth of 2.0 per cent in 2019.
for the low-income group due to volatility The decline in some commodities was
of price factor," he said in a statement also attributed to the lack of demand by
today. restaurants, eateries, and hotels that were
not operating or having restrictions in
He said Malaysia also has the potential to operations as a result of COVID-19.
reduce its dependency on imports of
agricultural products following the Meanwhile, landing marine fish in 2020
developments of this sector. amounted to 1.38 million tonnes, down
5.0 per cent from 1.45 million tonnes in
Total imports of the agriculture sector 2019, due to the lack of vessel operations
increased to RM98 billion in 2020 in deep sea as a result of restrictions on the
compared to RM93.5 billion in 2019. re-entry of foreign labour.
"This shows that the country's depend- Similarly, brackish water and freshwater
ence on agricultural imports is increasing aquaculture production decreased by 1.4
to meet domestic demands as well as and 7.1 per cent respectively from the
providing varieties to consumers and previous year.
Amirudin: Selangor to focus on business and general aviation
segment of aerospace industry
The government has tightened the the stipulated period before being allowed Above pic: Guests at the Selangor Aviation Show 2021 looking at an aircraft belonging to Brazilian
existing standard operating procedures to work in plantations and other sectors. aerospace manufacturer Embraer S.A. at the SkyPark Regional Aviation Centre in Subang.
(SOPs) on the entry of foreign workers,
following Malaysia’s first positive case of “All employers should also accept this action and some have been charged in involving officers at various levels. The
COVID-19 Omicron variant in Perak. fact which is important to protect the court,” he said. cartel’s involvement is not only related to
people’s health. The government is careful departmental promotion matters but is
Home Minister Datuk Seri Hamzah and follows all the stipulated SOPs for the Last Wednesday, the Home Ministry also said to use immigration officers for
Zainudin said the SOP was tightened in admission of employees and tightens the (KDN) revealed that it had received a their own ends.
accordance with the agreement of the SOPs agreed by the NSC,” he said. report regarding the existence of cartel
National Security Council (MKN) to ensure activities in the Immigration Department
that every individual who entered the It was reported that Malaysia recorded
country did not carry the dangerous virus. the first positive case of COVID-19 Omicron
variant, involving a student from South
“We do not know who may have the virus Africa at a private university in Ipoh.
and therefore the Ministry of Health
(MOH) conducts tests on people who enter Asked about the cartel issue at the
the country,” he said at a press conference Immigration Department, Hamzah said his
after attending the Mahabbah Rasulullah department had asked the Immigration
ceremony in conjunction with Maulidur director-general to take action against staff
Rasul at Selama District Council Hall in found to be involved in the syndicate.
Sungai Bayor near here today.
“I already knew that this cartel is a group
He said foreign workers who entered the that works with syndicates. Syndicates will
country are not exempted from the rules not be able to do their jobs without having
including ensuring they are vaccinated first insiders in the Immigration Department.
and undergo testing and quarantine within
“Some of the department staff, whether
officers or ordinary employees, will face
Chow: Penang aspires to be leading hub for IC design, front-end equipment manufacturing
Above pic: Chief Minister of Penang, With its reputation as the Silicon Valley forward to more exciting opportunities in RM110 billion of trade surplus in 2020,
Chow Kon Yeow of the East, Penang will continue to uphold years to come,” he said in a statement, representing 60 per cent of Malaysia’s total
its competitive edge, further entrench its issued by InvestPenang, in conjunction trade.
position in upstream activities, and aspire with Penang’s 50th anniversary of its
to become the leading hub for integrated industrialisation journey in 2022. “From 2013 to 2020, Penang’s exports
circuit (IC) design and front-end equipment were consistently on a rising trend and
manufacturing. He said Penang is the most important achieved a compound annual growth rate
manufacturing base for E&E products of 10 per cent, signifying the state’s
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the within Malaysia, and is among the most resilience to navigate through the industry
state also aims to strengthen the existing vibrant hubs globally, with an estimated cycles.
industry clusters in electrical and electron- five per cent of global semiconductor
ics (E&E), back-end machinery and equip- exports. “I would like to express my deepest
ment, and medical technology. appreciation to all industry players for the
In 2020, Penang’s exports reached a continued confidence in Penang, as well as
“With Penang’s sustainable ecosystem, I record high of RM310 billion, out of which the federal and state agencies for the
am confident that the state is on the right 82 per cent were contributed by E&E and concerted efforts in solidifying Penang’s
trajectory to realise these goals. professional, scientific and controlling position as a preferred investment location
instruments (including medical devices). throughout this 50-year industrialisation
“The state will stay committed to forging journey,” the chief minister said.
ahead with all stakeholders and I look Notably, he said, Penang generated
12 DECEMBER 2021
Above pic: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob hawkers and petty traders to take this
opportunity to revive and ensure the
PM Ismail Sabri: RM73.5 million for micro nancing survival of your respective businesses,” he
programme, Night Market Transformation said.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri dit financing with a zero per cent profit applicants, only a management cost of one On the Night Market Transformation
Yaakob today announced new initiatives rate from Bank Rakyat. per cent will be charged on their collec- Programme under the purview of the
for hawkers and petty traders involving an tion,” he said. Ministry of Housing and Local Govern-
allocation of RM48.5 million for micro The programme offers microcredit ment, Ismail Sabri said the allocation of
financing programme and another RM25 financing of between RM10,000 and The Prime Minister said the loan can be RM25 million would enable it to be imple-
million for the implementation of Night RM50,000 with a repayment period of up used by the hawkers and petty traders to mented in stages at 50 main night markets
Market Transformation. to five years, he said when launching the revive their businesses, such as working nationwide starting next year.
2021 Keluarga Malaysia Hawkers and Petty capital, purchase of equipment or
He said under the micro financing Traders Day and the National Night Market hardware or payments of salary, rent and He said the programme would focus on
programme, the hawkers and petty traders Transformation Programme here. utility bills. various elements of the new norm with
can apply for Shariah-compliant microcre- emphasis on safety and health compo-
“No profit rate will be imposed on the “So, I call on the Malaysian Family nents, such as the appointment of Night
Market Marshals to boost public
confidence.
The Prime Minister also expressed hope
that the local authorities and the state
governments would follow suit and adopt
the night market transformation approach.
The Night Market Transformation
Programme is a standardisation of night
market operations, involving the use of
tents, apron and traders’ hat, besides
ensuring compliance with the night market
guidelines set by the ministry and the
standard operating procedures (SOP) set
by the National Security Council, which
includes self-sanitation to prevent the
spread of COVID-19.
Night Market Marshals will function as
the authority to monitor compliance with
the given guidelines and SOP while ensur-
ing smooth operations of the night
markets.
At the event, Ismail Sabri also announced
an allocation of RM100,000 for the Associ-
ation of Malay Hawkers and Petty Traders
Malaysia.
Hishammuddin: DSA, NATSEC Asia
2022 at MITEC in March
Defence Services Asia (DSA) and Nation- from my ministry and the Home Ministry,” Above pic: President of DSA, Tan Sri Asmat Kamaludin(L), Senior Defence Minister, Datuk Seri
al Security (NATSEC) Asia 2022 will be held he told reporters in a joint press confer- Hishammuddin Tun Hussein(L2) and Home Affairs Minister, Datuk Seri Hamzah
from March 28 to 30 2022 at Malaysia ence with Home Minister Datuk Seri Zainuddin(R).
International Trade and Exhibition Centre, Hamzah Zainudin after launching DSA and
(MITEC), here, Senior Defence Minister NATSEC Asia 2022, here. transitioned into the post-pandemic era. NATSEC will once again shed light on
Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein Meanwhile, DSA Exhibition and Confer- regional and international issues and
said today. Hishammuddin said DSA has proven to establish mutually beneficial collabora-
be more than just an exhibition or a confer- ence chairman Tan Sri Asmat Kamaluddin tions in the interest of advancing national
He said DSA 2022 and NATSEC Asia 2022 ence and, it is an invaluable platform in said DSA 2022 will also see the return of a and international security,” he said.
will be complemented by a virtual platform bringing together various industry leaders, number of special features and new ones
as a value-added component to help governments, military and defence in terms of conferences, forums and Hamzah said the event also saw the
participants access the contents before, agencies from across the region with the contract signings; international pavilions, participation of top-level delegates from
during and after the show and are expect- purpose of forging mutual trust and collab- business matching events; and demonstra- around the world, including his counter-
ing more than 1,000 companies from 54 oration between all parties. tions of CTF Cyber War Games, Unmanned parts, inspector-generals of police, as well
countries to participate in the event. Systems, and Combat Artificial Intelli- as director-generals of customs, immigra-
He said the theme for DSA 2022 on gence. tion, maritime and enforcement agencies,
“I applaud the organisers for taking the “Advancing into a New Era of Defence and security intelligence, prisons and fire and
initiative to run the DSA and NATSEC Asia Security”, could not be more appropriate “Following the successful initiation of the rescue departments, together with their
series as a hybrid event which is a historic apart from comprehensively portraying inaugural NATSEC in 2018, DSA 2022 will representatives.
first since the inception of the series. the tremendous role this event plays in also see the return of this highly pioneer-
putting Malaysia on the international ing event, which itself, has shown tremen- “I believe the time will come in the near
“The DSA organiser has the full support defence map, especially as the world dous potential for growth,” he said. future when NATSEC will go on to become
of the Malaysian government specifically a global national security event in its own
Meanwhile, Hamzah said the Home right,” he said
Ministry is glad to endorse events such as
DSA and NATSEC. DSA and NATSEC Asia 2022 are open to
high-level delegations, government
“Although still in its infancy, NATSEC is set personnel, defence and security industry
to become a dedicated national security professionals and executives as well as the
show by leveraging on DSA’s globally military, police and enforcement agencies
recognised VIP delegation management personnel only.
system.
Both events are ready and welcome the
“With high-quality delegation delivered presence of exhibitors and trade visitors.
throughout the duration of the event,
13DECEMBER 2021
Datuk Seri Azman Ujang shares his passion and dedication in journalism
If there is a description for passion, it Above pic: Datuk Seri Azman Ujang awarded in the Sarawak Journalism Laureate Award 2021
would be a spark that is built in our hearts
that spreads to our bones, engulfing us as General Manager and Editor-in-Chief in the His question, which invoked the interests widened his perspectives.
a whole. history of the national news agency. of other journalists and editors as well, had Commenting on the current media
led it to be front page news in several
With a strong passion in writing and Commenting on this, Azman said: “I rose newspapers. Citing The Star, the headline industry, he wishes for the public to contin-
news reporting, Datuk Seri Azman Ujang in my career because of my nose for the featuring his question read “Rich ue to support the mainstream traditional
has a DNA in journalism with a nose that is news and I chased news 24/7. Journalism bankrupts”, an angle that may not have media, the printed newspapers.
able to detect news even 10 kilometres is not a 9-5 job, you cannot be fussy about been discovered if he did not ask the
away. time.” question. “Nowadays GEN Y don’t read because
they have handphones, I hope people
Spending decades being involved in a “In my career I have missed my birthday, On another occasion, Azman asked a continue to support the newspapers, I
profession that he deeply loves has led to family’s birthdays and they want to cut the Menteri Besar on his resignation on live don’t want newspapers to close down
the conferment of several awards, includ- cake, I say no, landslide at Genting and television as he had held his post for 32 because they lose their readers, if they
ing The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays even Highland Tower, people dug up the years. lose readers, they lose the newspapers,”
with Neck Ribbon award he received from bodies so I have to be there. he said.
the Japanese government earlier this Even though coming out with strong
month. I owe it to my profession to do my very questions, Azman did not intend to offend Illustrating further, he shared that one
best. Whatever you do, don’t overdo it and anyone, rather, he was just doing his job as local newspaper used to have 700 staff, but
The Sarawak-born journalist possessed a don’t do cincai work.” a reporter to provide a newsworthy news now they are capable of hiring only 70.
notable flair in writing since his early years with an oomph. Furthermore, the daily newspaper circula-
which was discovered by his teachers. However, whatever post he holds, he still tion used to be 150,000, now it’s only
Notably, the ex-Chairman of BERNAMA regards himself as a journalist as it runs in His interviewing skills led him to be very 20,000.
also read Straits Times (now named New his DNA. well-known within the journalism circle.
Straits Times) since he was 10 years old up Azman also hopes that present day
to this day where he still subscribes to the Speaking on his colourful experience in Reflecting on his experience, Azman reporters will try their very best in this
newspaper along with The Sun and The an interview with IIUMToday recently, shared that writing news stories used to be profession and be more daring in discover-
Star that are directly delivered to his Azman shared that he is well-known as a quite hard as compared to these days as ing angles that will bring in that element of
house. reporter who always asked hard but crucial “we have to carry out and type on a flavour and do not do half-hearted reports.
questions during interviews and press typewriter and after that we have to go to
During his schooling days Azman often conferences. the telex office to send the story by telex. “I get upset whenever my journalists give
received comments such as “you’d be a We started with a teleprinter, so I have to me cincai work. Who doesn’t give their
good reporter” by his teachers and was “I don’t want to blow my own trumpet, send the story to KL. I think because of the best effort will get a lecture from me
often called up to read his essays in class, but I want to get the best out of the very difficulties that we went through we were because everything is online, the whole
setting an example of what a good essay best and I don’t apologise for asking hard less casual in doing our jobs.” world will read our news, people will know
looks like. questions, rather than go back and write and what is even worse is when you write
that this governor told us about the econo- Azman Ujang has covered a wide range something factually wrong, then people
Months after finishing high school, my, for example I asked; ‘We have a lot of of national issues. When Tun Dr. Mahathir will get upset,” he said.
Azman was offerred a job at BERNAMA people who are declared bankrupt but Mohamad became Prime Minister in 1981,
office in Kuching, thus, that is the spark they are very rich’.” he was attached as a reporter for the Prime As a veteran journalist he shared:
that has flamed him into decades of Minister and covered most of his official “Improve yourself, be extraordinary and
success, dedication and hard work. overseas trips which led him to meet the you’ll be noticed.”
United State’s former President Bill
Azman Ujang began his career with Clinton. Furthermore, he said that it is important
BERNAMA as a cadet reporter at BERNA- for journalists to have a good command in
MA Sarawak bureau in 1971 and was Not only that, he also reported on the English to keep up with world issues and
promoted to head the Sabah bureau in end of the communist insurgency in Malay- for the world to be able to read our news.
1982. The following year he was appointed sia when the Communist Party of Malaya
as Economic News Service news editor. (CPM) signed a peace agreement with “I thank the fact that I am English educat-
Malaysia in Hatyai (Thailand) on 2 Decem- ed, I pray education system will go back
During his illustrious career with BERNA- ber 1989. To celebrate the signing of the with English as the main medium of
MA spanning over 40 years, Azman was peace agreement and the ending of CPM’s instruction,” he said.
promoted to various editorial positions, arms struggle, an after-party was held and
including assistant editor of the News journalists were not welcomed to the During the interview, Azman Ujang who
Desk, Features Desk and acting editor of after-party, but his drive and dedication led is a hardcore reporter by DNA shared that
the Features and Foreign News Desk. him to attend the event where he met he has never met with a challenge
face-to-face with Chin Peng (CPM leader) throughout his decades of flourishing
He rose from the ranks to become himself. career, not because there were no
Editor-in-Chief in 2004 and later in 2008 as challenges, but he has always chosen to
General Manager. In 2016, he was appoint- He said to Chin Peng: “When I was a kid, enjoy the job and to be extraordinary,
ed as Chairman of BERNAMA until comple- the mere mention of your name, struck always.
tion of his term in 2020. fear but here I am in front of you.”
Azman’s sparks of flame is journalism
Azman Ujang became the first ever to Azman said that the interesting thing that continued to stream in his DNA which
hold the top three posts of Chairman, about being a journalist is that you are able led to his extraordinary success. This has
to network and speak to everyone includ- inspired others too.
Above pic: Datuk Seri Azman Ujang get the BrandLaureate Brand ICONS of the Decade Awards at ing the King, the Prime Minister, and
the BrandLaureate Brand ICON Leadership Awards 2019. [Photo/Bernama] fishermen among others, that had What is your spark that you choose to
embark on?
Datuk Seri Azman Ujang is the Honorary
Chairman of the Malaysia-China Insight.
14 DECEMBER 2021
NINGXIA
Come to Ningxia, give your soul a vacation
The majestic desert scenery, the beauti- In Shapotou, you can enjoy the sunrise
ful scenery in the hinterland, the ancient of the desert, the sunset of the Yellow
civilization of the Yellow River, and the River, and the most beautiful starry sky.
towering Helan mountains, and all such Immersed in here, you can hear the
rich tourism resources make Ningxia an faintly beautiful camel bells, telling the
indispensable stop for tourists on the story of the ancient and tranquil frontier
northwest line in China, especially the fortress. The Yellow River is running and
world famous desert of Ningxia. the sands of desert are endless. Here,
there are not only ancient sheepskin rafts,
“The smoke above the chimneys go but also modern exciting Yellow River
straight up against the solitary desert, the rope, and not only sand skaters full of
setting sun looms larger and rosier”, the modern speed, but also camel teams with
poem impressed us deeply by describing great historical color. In Shapotou, time
Ningxia as ” The Oasis in the Hinterland”, seems to be static, with only constant
and what’s more , among all the desert scenery. It silently records the tourists
scenic spots in Ningxia, Shapotou scenic who have come and gone for thousands
spot in Zhongwei is top-ranking. of years, like an indelible postcard,
recording the stories that only belong to
It’s really enjoyable to go camping at Ningxia.
night under the starry sky on desert of
Shapotou, cheer with two or three
friends, Share the food and the stories
with your friends . Maybe this is the life
you yearn for. The bonfire will let you
relax and enjoy the vacation. The poem
and the distance are right in front of you.
15DECEMBER 2021
Malaysia-China Insight, accessible via a trilingual news Apps,
an English language newspaper and a bilingual English-Chinese Magazine,
is dedicated to sharing the latest Malaysia-China business news.
Scan us and Download
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Minister Nancy Shukri (L2), Datuk Mokhtar Hussain (L), Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia Ouyang Yujing (R3),
Datuk Seri Azman Ujang (R2) and Datuk Keith Li (R) Attended Opening Ceremony of the Zhejiang Tourism
(Southeast Asia) Promotion Center new office at Malaysia-China Insight new office @ 8th floor Wisma Bernama
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