KUALA LUMPUR, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- An enthusiastic and open approach to new technology has fueled China's rapid modernization as an industrial and technological power, participants said at a forum held here on Thursday.
This attitude, complemented by the progressive and diligent work ethic of the Chinese people along with its overwhelmingly successful results, represents a pathway for other nations seeking to improve themselves, asserted speakers at this year's edition of the International Forum On New Inclusive Asia with the theme "Chinese Modernization and Lessons for Developing Countries."
China's rapid adoption of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) has seen significant strides, with home-grown companies such as Baidu and Tencent at the forefront of AI research and development, creating applications that range from autonomous driving to advanced healthcare solutions, Eugene Pek Chuen Khee, head of Taylor's University School of Management and Marketing, said in his welcome remarks at the forum.
"China's journey from a largely agrarian society to a global economic powerhouse is nothing short of remarkable. Over the past few decades, China has transformed its economy, lifted hundreds of millions out of poverty, and emerged as a leader in technology and innovation. This transformation offers several key lessons for developing countries aspiring to achieve similar progress," he said.
"China's modernization journey offers valuable lessons for developing countries, including Malaysia. By adopting visionary leadership, investing in infrastructure, emphasizing education and innovation, implementing economic reforms, promoting inclusive growth, and prioritizing environmental sustainability, Malaysia can pave its own path to prosperity," he said.
Minister of the Chinese Embassy in Malaysia Zheng Xuefang said the world has entered into a new phase of turbulence and uncertainty, tested by escalated competition between major powers, intensified geopolitical confrontation, re-occurrence of anti-globalization, and increased unilateralism. Against this backdrop, China has successfully pioneered its modernization path, prospering both its own nation and the whole world as an energetic powerhouse and consistent peace stabilizer.
"The world is a global community shared by all. Chinese modernization does not solely belong to China. It is a great asset to the whole world. China is willing to work with Malaysia and all other countries to advance the common modernization of humanity. Together, we will play the beautiful symphony of common development and embrace a brighter future for all," he said.
For his part, Koh King Kee, president of the Centre for New Inclusive Asia, a non-governmental Malaysian think tank said Malaysia has embarked on its own development program and stands to gain China's experience as both countries have a deep interest in eradicating poverty, uplifting living standards, and promoting sustainable development.
"Beyond modernization of a huge population, other features of China's modernization in the new era such as its focus on peaceful growth, poverty alleviation, common prosperity, cultural advancement, and respect for the environment holds relevance for many developing nations," he said.
The one-day forum was co-organized by Malaysia's Center for New Inclusive Asia, School of Management and Marketing of Taylor's University and China's Global Governance Institution. It brought together distinguished speakers from Malaysia, China, Singapore and Pakistan in three sessions to explore the lessons of China's modernization efforts and the lessons that developing countries can apply and adapt to their own developmental efforts.■