How will Malaysia's new leader shape bilateral ties with China?

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‍Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad wrapped-up his five-day visit to China on Tuesday. The newly elected Mahathir said his visit was a chance to show the importance of relations between Malaysia and its largest trading partner, China.

When the 93-year-old leader became the Malaysian PM for the second time, his critical stance against China has raised concerns about a set-back of bilateral ties. He has criticized Chinese ventures in his home country for being too expensive and has suspended three China-backed projects worth around 22 billion US dollars that were signed under the previous administration.

Dr. Rastam Mohd Isa, the Chairman and Chief Executive of the Institute of Strategic and International Studies in Malaysia, however, said there's no need to worry as PM Mahathir will sure value China-Malaysia ties.

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"One thing we need to recognize is that Mahathir is the man who speaks to his mind. There were times it appears as if he’s talking tough, but he has always been like that. I think he’s also a man who believes that you need to be practical, you need to be pragmatic," said Dr. Isa during an interview with CGTN's program World Insight with Tian Wei.

"He has said he values friendship with China, he values economic cooperation and trade and investment with China, and he values China’s role in the world. So I think as we move forward, relations between Malaysia and China will continue to be strong, friendly and I’m sure he will pursue cooperation," he added.

Dr. Isa also pointed out that the fact PM Mahathir has got six ministers within the delegation during the visit to Beijing was the proof to show that he’s very serious about it.

On Monday morning, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang welcomed the Malaysian leader. They also witnessed the signing of documents marking fields for cooperation. The Malaysian leader said that they welcome Chinese investment as it can improve their employment rate.

"There is much to begin by strengthening the relationship between China and Malaysia," said PM Mahathir.

Malaysia's Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad speaks during a news conference with China's Premier Li Keqiang at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China on August, 20, 2018 /VCG Photo

While addressing the concerns on a risk in Mahathir’s attempt to balance between China and the US, Dr. Isa said the Malaysian leader will focus more on ASEAN and South-South cooperation.

"Malaysia has an important position in the region, in ASEAN as well as the Asia-Pacific. And I think he will make sure that we will be able to carry out our obligations in the international arena as a responsible nation that carries out a pragmatic and friendly foreign policy.

"Now, he has said he will give emphasis to ASEAN. He would like to give emphasis to South-South cooperation which means cooperation among the developing countries he championed before. I’m sure he’ll also be pragmatic when it comes to relations with China and other big powers like the United States," said Dr. Isa.

World Insight with Tian Wei is a 45-minute global affairs and debate show on CGTN. It airs weekdays at 10.15 p.m. BJT (1415GMT), with rebroadcasts at 4.15 a.m. BJT (2015GMT).