51st Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations Between Malaysia and China Celebrated with a Run

nabalunews
Jul 27
2 min read

Updated: Jul 28

Liew (left) with Chan, Yeoh, Dr Oh, Tan, and others viewing the 51st Anniversary Photo Exhibition commemorating China-Malaysia diplomatic relations.

27 July 2025

KOTA KINABALU: The JOM! Malaysia-China Friendship Run 2025, organised by the Malaysia-China Friendship Association Sabah, was flagged off at 6.30am at Padang Merdeka here on Sunday.

Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment, Datuk Seri Christina Liew, officiated the flag-off on behalf of Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.

She was joined by the Federal Minister of Youth and Sports, Hannah Yeoh; Deputy Minister of Plantation and Commodities, Datuk Chan Foong Hin; Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Kota Kinabalu, H.E. Zhu Xinglong; Assistant Minister of Finance, Datuk Tan Lee Fatt; and President of the Malaysia-China Friendship Association Sabah, Dr Oh Ei Sun.

Dr Oh said the objective of the run was to celebrate the 51st anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China.

Over 5,500 participants took part in the 7km run, which followed a scenic route along Likas Bay and returned to Padang Merdeka from the Bay 21 roundabout.

Speaking to reporters after the flag-off, Liew commended the organisers for a well-executed event.

“I hope that interested tourists will have the opportunity to participate in future runs as an additional attraction while visiting the city,” she said.

When interviewed by Xin Hua and China News Agency about her attendance, the Minister said she took pride in being part of such a meaningful celebration, adding that there was a strong sense of camaraderie among participants from both countries.

“As a cultural and sporting exchange activity that has been held for many years, its significance lies in reaffirming the bilateral ties between Malaysia and China. It helps to foster lasting friendship, mutual respect, and greater understanding between our peoples, as we share common ideals of trust, peace, and harmony,” Liew added.