KOTA KINABALU: The Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Kinabalu, Her Excellency Dr Huang Shifang, paid a courtesy call to Tuan Yang Terutama Tun Datuk Seri Panglima (Dr.) Musa Haji Aman at Istana Negeri Seri Kinabalu today.
This visit marked a farewell call, as Her Excellency’s mission in Sabah is set to conclude this March. Tuan Yang Terutama Tun expressed his gratitude for her service during her tenure, stating that Sabah will always welcome her return to the state.
He highlighted the significant contributions made by the Chinese Consulate-General’s Office in Kota Kinabalu towards fostering ties between China and Sabah since its establishment. “We are always open to hearing from the Consul General on how to better facilitate trade, tourism, investment, and other sectors, in line with our vision of bringing greater prosperity to both China and Malaysia, and particularly to Sabah,” he remarked.
Tuan Yang Terutama Tun noted that Malaysia, and Sabah in particular, have enjoyed close ties and increased exchanges with various parts of China. “This is evidently reflected in the number of Chinese tourists visiting our state, which has brought considerable economic benefits and spin-offs to Sabah,” he added.
In response, Her Excellency Shifang remarked on the longstanding friendship between China and Malaysia, noting that their relations have been further strengthened in recent years. “I feel very fortunate to have been posted to Sabah at this opportune time, as the two countries are enjoying even closer ties,” she stated.
She also acknowledged the warmth and hospitality of the Sabah people, as well as the courtesy and cooperation extended to her during her mission in the state. “I would like to extend my gratitude to Tuan Yang Terutama Tun for actively promoting relations with China, even back when he was still Chief Minister,” she noted.
Her Excellency further mentioned that Tun’s support was clearly demonstrated by his presence at the recent Spring Festival event organised by the Consulate General’s office. “I look forward to returning to Sabah, a state that has so much to offer in terms of resources, particularly its tourism value,” she concluded.-pr/BNN
