Malaysia Values Diplomatic and Defence Ties with China – Defence Minister
In a social media statement today, the Defence Minister expressed Malaysia’s appreciation for the longstanding diplomatic and defence relations with China.
(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) – Malaysia’s Defence Minister, Datuk Seri Mohamad Khaled Nordin, received a courtesy call from General Liu Zhenli, Chief of Joint Staff, Department of the Central Military Commission (CMC) of the People’s Republic of China, at Wisma Pertahanan in Kuala Lumpur.
In a social media statement today, the Defence Minister expressed Malaysia’s appreciation for the longstanding diplomatic and defence relations with China.
“The Ministry of Defence believes that this strong relationship will continue to be strengthened, grounded in mutual respect and understanding between the two nations,” he said.
“The meeting covered a range of topics, including enhancing bilateral cooperation, military exercises, international forums, and the defence industry,” he added.
Both countries have previously engaged in bilateral dialogues on maritime issues in the South China Sea.
(kredit FB Khaled Nordin)
The Defence Minister emphasized that such diplomatic engagements will continue to ensure these matters are managed effectively.
Earlier, General Liu also paid a courtesy call on Malaysia’s Chief of Defence Forces, General Tan Sri Mohammad Ab Rahman, at Wisma Pertahanan. The visit aimed to bolster diplomatic ties and defence cooperation between the two countries.
According to the Malaysian Armed Forces Headquarters, the meeting underscored the close relations between the two nations in promoting regional stability and security.
“During the meeting, both sides exchanged views on various regional security issues, military intelligence sharing, and collaboration in training and joint operations,” the statement said.
General Liu’s courtesy call on Mohammad began with an Honour Guard Inspection by the 1st Battalion of the Royal Malay Regiment (RAMD), comprising three officers and 103 personnel, led by Major Adibadiuezshah Ahmad.
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Also in attendance were Army Chief General Tan Sri Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan, Air Force Chief General Tan Sri Mohd Asghar Khan Goriman Khan, and Navy Chief Admiral Datuk Zulhelmy Ithnain.
General Liu has served as Chief of Joint Staff of the Central Military Commission since September 2022.
Born in Luancheng County, Hebei Province, China, General Liu joined the PLA in September 1983 and became a member of the Communist Party of China in April 1984. He is a graduate of the PLA National Defense University.
In 1986, Liu participated in the Sino-Vietnam conflict (1979–1991), during which he and his unit successfully defended their positions against 36 consecutive attacks by the Vietnamese military.
He was appointed as the first Chief of Staff of the newly reorganized PLA Army in December 2015 and later served as Commander of the PLA Army from June 2021 to September 2022.
(kredit FB Khaled Nordin)
Liu assumed his current role in September 2022, succeeding Li Zuocheng.
According to the South China Morning Post, General Liu plays a critical role in China’s military operations and strategic planning as Chief of Staff of the Joint Staff Department of the CMC.
He is also actively involved in high-level military communications between China and other nations.
General Liu is a member of the 19th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and previously served as a delegate to the 12th National People’s Congress.
With extensive combat experience and leadership across various positions within the PLA, General Liu Zhenli is regarded as a key figure in China’s current military hierarchy. – DSA