China has recognised Malaysia's constructive involvement in advancing negotiations on the Code of Conduct (COC) for the South China Sea, with discussions now reaching a decisive juncture. The talks aim to establish institutional safeguards for sustained peace and stability across the contested region.

China's Ambassador to Malaysia Ouyang Yujing made the comments during a media briefing on Tuesday, responding to earlier statements by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim regarding Malaysia's commitment to pushing forward the COC process. Ouyang specifically commended Malaysia for its role as co-chair of the implementation mechanism for the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea.

Since the previous year, the two countries have maintained robust dialogue on maritime matters and worked together to enhance cooperation in managing maritime issues within the region. Both Beijing and Kuala Lumpur have stressed their commitment to steering the negotiations toward completion within the anticipated timeframe, with ASEAN leaders broadly expressing confidence that finalisation could occur this year.

Outyang reaffirmed China's determination to collaborate with all stakeholders, including Malaysia, to overcome obstacles while identifying shared interests and resolving disagreements constructively. Such an approach, he emphasised, would provide a dependable institutional framework for enduring regional stability.

Bilateral relations between China and Malaysia have reached unprecedented strength following President Xi Jinping's state visit to Malaysia last year. High-level exchanges have set new records, including Premier Li Qiang's two trips to Malaysia and Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's four visits to China since assuming office. These frequent engagements have deepened political trust and expanded collaboration across numerous sectors, according to Ouyang.