Led by the Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, Liew Chin Tong, the Malaysia-China Aviation Forum 2024 has brought together key stakeholders from Malaysia and China to explore opportunities for synergy and advancement in the aviation and aerospace sectors. Aligned with the Malaysian Aerospace Industry Blueprint 2030, the forum aims to position Malaysia as a leading aerospace nation in Southeast Asia by 2030, with a focus on achieving an annual revenue of RM55.2 billion and creating over 32,000 high-income jobs.
“The blueprint encompasses five key subsectors, including MRO, aero manufacturing, system integration, engineering and design services, as well as education and training.” Tong said. He further emphasised the importance of global partnerships in advancing sustainable practices within the aerospace sector. The forum featured discussions on emerging technologies, collaborative strategies for MRO expertise, and innovative approaches to reducing the environmental footprint of aviation operations. These discussions underscored the industry’s commitment to combating climate change and fostering a greener future.
The aerospace industry is set to play a pivotal role in driving forward the objectives outlined in Malaysia’s New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030), Tong said. He emphasised on the focus of advancing economic complexity, fostering technological innovation for a digitally vibrant nation, striving for net zero emissions, and ensuring economic security and inclusivity, to ensure the aerospace sector stands as a key contributor to Malaysia’s economic transformation. “With NIMP 2030 in place, it could transform Malaysia into a global hub for aerospace manufacturing and services.” Tong added.
The collaboration between Malaysia and China in organising the forum reflects the growing significance of China’s aerospace industry and Malaysia’s aspiration to play a more prominent role in the global supply chain. With Malaysia’s established presence in aviation material and aircraft parts manufacturing, the forum aims to capitalise on China’s fast-growing aerospace sector to unlock new opportunities and dynamics.
“The aviation and aerospace industries were previously dominated by American and European giants. China’s entry is very recent but significant no less. China’s fast growing aerospace industry will bring new opportunities and new dynamics which Malaysia hopes to tap into.” Tong said.
Organised by the National Aerospace Industry Corporation Malaysia (NAICO Malaysia) in partnership with the China Society of Aeronautics and Astronautics (CSAA), International Association for Green Aviation (IAGA), Volar Air Mobility, and supported by various industry associations and consulting firms, the forum serves as a platform to foster commercial opportunities, forge new partnerships, and explore new horizons in the aerospace industry, particularly in green aviation.
“The collaboration between Malaysia and China in making this forum a success can be considered as part of the efforts to mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between both nations.” Tong said. Moving forward, the discussions and strategies developed during the forum are expected to enhance the resilience and agility of the aerospace supply chain, paving the way for sustainable growth and collaboration in the years to come.
