At the beginning of 2025, Malacca Governor and President of the World Malay Friendship Association His Excellency Tun Ali and his delegation visited Hainan to explore further cooperation opportunities with the FTP.

Last year marked the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Malaysia, and the two countries have always been good neighbors and good partners. Under the impetus of the "Belt and Road" initiative, China-Malaysia cooperation has achieved fruitful results and made positive contributions to regional peace and prosperity. The Hainan Hall in Malacca, Malaysia has been the site of many exchanges between the two sides over the years, building a legacy of deep friendship since the hall was first established 156 years ago.

On Jan. 16, the Hainan International Media Center had the honor of conducting an exclusive interview with His Excellency Tun Ali, who spoke highly of the remarkable achievements of the development of the Hainan FTP. Hainan and Malacca have many similarities in geographical location, available resources, and industrial structure. Both sides have an excellent foundation for cooperation and complementary advantages, especially in the areas of port economy and tourism industry development. His Excellency believes that with the support of the preferential Hainan FTP policies, strengthening exchanges and cooperation between Hainan and Malacca entrepreneurs and achieving the bilateral flow of technology and products will effectively promote further development of the import-export trade and tourism industries of both regions.

During his visit, His Excellency and the delegation visited Sanya, Haikou, and other parts of Hainan to gain a greater understanding of the current situation and potential for low-altitude tourism in Hainan. His Excellency also stopped by Hainan University, where he praised Hainan's achievements in education, scientific research and personnel training. His Excellency was deeply impressed by Hainan’s vast stores of natural resources, profound historic and cultural heritage, and the warm hospitality of the Hainan people.

Chinese New Year is nearly here, and His Excellency said that in recent years more and more Malaysians have decided to come to Hainan during Spring Festival to experience the charm of traditional Chinese culture. During his time in Hainan, His Excellency also enjoyed the island’s festive atmosphere, which reminded him of the colorful Spring Festival celebrations of Malaysia. He expressed his best holiday wishes to the people of Hainan in Chinese: Wishing you a happy and prosperous new year!