The China-ASEAN Media and Think Tank Forum in Kuala Lumpur focuses on fostering cooperation between China and ASEAN, exploring new pathways to regional prosperity and collaboration.
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| At the China-ASEAN Media and Think Tank Forum in Kuala Lumpur, media and think tank leaders from China and ASEAN discussed enhancing collaboration for mutual growth and prosperity. Image: Xinhuanet |
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia — April 15, 2025:
The China-ASEAN Media and Think Tank Forum took place on Friday in Kuala Lumpur, bringing together influential media and think tank representatives from China and the 10 ASEAN member countries. The forum aimed to deepen regional collaboration and foster common development by discussing shared challenges and opportunities for growth between China and ASEAN.
Under the theme “Strengthening ASEAN-China Cooperation,” the forum focused on the role of media and think tanks in shaping policies, facilitating cooperation, and promoting a shared vision of prosperity for the region. In his opening remarks, Malaysia’s Deputy Prime Minister Fadillah Yusof reaffirmed Malaysia’s steadfast commitment to a cohesive ASEAN-China partnership, which he described as crucial for regional stability and contributing to global economic resilience. Yusof also highlighted the importance of think tanks and media as bridges for fostering understanding and harmony in an increasingly interconnected world.
Lyu Yansong, editor-in-chief of Xinhua News Agency, echoed the sentiments of Chinese President Xi Jinping, stating, "Good neighbors wish each other well." Lyu emphasized the shared vision of China and ASEAN to work together as partners to promote mutual prosperity, with China-ASEAN relations now transcending the bilateral sphere to take on global significance.
In his video message, Ouyang Yujing, China’s Ambassador to Malaysia, underscored the relevance of President Xi’s vision of building a community with a shared future for humankind. He called on media and think tanks to highlight the success stories of China-Malaysia and China-ASEAN cooperation, contributing to global solutions and a brighter future for humanity.
Wong Chun Wai, Chairman of Bernama, Malaysia’s National News Agency, emphasized the need for strengthening cultural exchanges between ASEAN and China, two regions rich in history and tradition. He suggested that enhanced civilizational exchanges could serve as a model for unity and cooperation among countries in the Global South. Wong also proposed increased cooperation in harnessing artificial intelligence within media practices to address emerging challenges and seize new opportunities for joint growth.
The forum, co-hosted by Xinhua News Agency and Bernama, attracted approximately 260 representatives from over 160 organizations, including media outlets, think tanks, government agencies, and businesses from China and ASEAN countries. During the event, the Xinhua Institute, affiliated with Xinhua News Agency, presented a groundbreaking report titled “RCEP and the Vision of the Maritime Silk Road: New Frontiers for China-ASEAN Cooperation,” highlighting opportunities for deeper economic collaboration through the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).
The forum concluded with a collective call for media and think tanks to strengthen coordination, embrace technological advancements, and work together to overcome emerging challenges. With shared aspirations for mutual prosperity, the participants expressed a commitment to enhancing China-ASEAN relations and building a stronger regional community with a shared future.