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By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, Aug 19: Malaysia and China will celebrate the golden anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between both countries in 2024.
In stating this, Malaysian Chinese Muslim Association (MACMA) president Datuk Prof Dr Taufiq Yap Yun Hin said diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China were established in 1974.
To mark this historical moment, he said MACMA Malaysia will organise an International Conference on Cheng Ho, which is also in conjunction with the Association’s 30th anniversary next year.
Following this, he has encouraged various agencies, including the government and private sectors and the Embassy of China to Malaysia, as joint organisers.
“The well-known voyage of Admiral Zheng He (Cheng Ho) from China to the West is a proof of the friendship between the two countries.
“He had visited Melaka five times during his seven voyages, and a significant impact can be seen until today in the historical city of Melaka,” he said during International Chinese Muslim Conference (ICMC) 2023 Gala Dinner held at Waterfront Hotel earlier tonight.
Dr Taufiq further said MACMA wants to play a big role and contribute towards efforts to build the nation and society to strengthen unity and promote harmony and peace in the diverse society of Malaysia, which is one of the most multicultural nations in Southeast Asia.
“Sarawak is an excellent example where the people here stay in harmony despite huge differences and diversity in the society.
“I am also grateful for the kind support from the China Embassy in Malaysia, the Islamic Council of Federal Territory, Taqwa Foundation, and Regional Islamic Da’wah Council for Southeast Asia and the Pacific (Riseap),” he added.
With the theme ‘The Roles and Impacts of Chinese Muslims: Embracing The Future’, it is the first time that the ICMC is held in Kuching, from Aug 18 to 20.
The conference was organised by MACMA in collaboration with Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak).
The ICMC 2023 Gala Dinner was graced by the Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, as the guest of honour.
Amongst those present were Deputy Premier Dato Sri Dr Sim Kui Hian; Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Malaysia, Ouyang Yujing; Sarawak Minister of Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah; and Sarawak Islamic Council (SIC) president Datu Misnu Taha. — DayakDaily
