A media delegation from Zhejiang, China, visited Sabah from December 14 to 20 to strengthen cultural and educational cooperation. The trip also included a visit to South Korea.
Organized by the Zhejiang Provincial People’s Government, the visit focused on promoting media exchanges and exploring opportunities for collaboration in education and culture. The delegation toured local institutions and learned more about Sabah’s media landscape and schools.
During their stay, the delegation visited Daily Express Malaysia, Sin Chew Daily, and Kian Kok Middle School. They also met representatives from the Malaysia-China Friendship Association Sabah and the Sabah Journalists Association. These visits offered insights into Sabah’s media operations, educational programs, and community engagement.
The delegation held discussions with Zhu Xinglong, China’s Consul General in Kota Kinabalu, and explored the city’s natural and cultural landmarks. This gave members a better understanding of Sabah’s heritage and social environment, strengthening ties between Zhejiang and Sabah communities.
At Kian Kok Middle School, Chairman Datuk Clement Yeh highlighted the potential for expanding cooperation with Zhejiang. He emphasized initiatives in artificial intelligence (AI) technology and traditional Chinese culture, including ethnic dance programs. Datuk Yeh also suggested forming sister-school partnerships to allow students from Sabah to study in China, promoting cross-cultural learning and educational exchange.
The visit reflects growing interest in international collaboration between Chinese provinces and Southeast Asian regions. Zhejiang’s delegation sought to identify opportunities for joint educational programs, cultural exchanges, and technology initiatives, particularly in innovative fields like AI.
Local educators welcomed the delegation, noting that partnerships with Zhejiang schools could enrich curricula and provide students with global perspectives. They highlighted the value of learning Chinese culture, language, and technology, which could prepare students for careers in international industries.
Media exchanges were also a key part of the visit. By visiting leading newspapers and journalism associations, the Zhejiang delegation gained insights into Sabah’s media practices and community reporting. This experience is expected to promote better understanding and collaboration between journalists in both regions.
The delegation’s visit underscores the importance of long-term cultural and educational cooperation. Programs such as sister-school partnerships and student exchange initiatives aim to foster lasting connections and mutual understanding. These efforts also support technological learning and innovation by linking schools and communities in Sabah and Zhejiang.
Officials from both sides agreed to continue discussions and explore practical ways to implement joint projects. Areas of focus include media collaboration, student exchanges, cultural events, and AI-focused educational programs. Such initiatives are expected to enhance knowledge-sharing and strengthen ties between the two regions.
By combining cultural heritage, education, and technology, the collaboration between Zhejiang and Sabah aims to provide students and communities with new opportunities for growth. The initiative reflects a broader trend of Chinese provincial governments seeking partnerships in Southeast Asia to promote learning, innovation, and cultural exchange.
The visit concluded with plans to maintain ongoing communication and engagement between Sabah schools, media organizations, and Zhejiang institutions. Both parties emphasized the importance of practical programs that support cultural understanding, technological learning, and long-term educational development.
