Kuala Lumpur
The China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) will continue to be key economic driver with the expected global economic slowdown, Malaysian International Trade and Industry Deputy Minister Ong Kian Ming said.
Speaking at the World Bank’s launch of a report on BRI in Malaysia, Ong explained the ongoing U.S.-China trade tensions would move China to seek new markets.
“This could have positive consequences from a global trade and investment standpoint, especially with the predicted slowdown in the global economy. China will want to seek new markets, new economic opportunities and new supply chains for its companies,” he said.
Ong also said there is a need for countries participating in the BRI to gain a greater understanding of the initiative and to identify and benefit from the opportunities presented by it as it goes beyond just the scope of infrastructure development.
“The common understanding of BRI projects have to do with the infrastructure sector – roads, rails, ports and energy. But these projects also pave the way for other investments from Chinese companies, for example state owned-enterprises in the manufacturing sector as well as privately owned-enterprises in the services and construction sector, just to give a few examples,” he said.
World Bank Group (WBG) representative to Malaysia and country manager Dr Firas Raad said the BRI and its associated economic corridors, have the potential to substantially boost trade, increase foreign investment, and improve living conditions for citizens in participating countries.—APP
