The rise of China as a global economic powerhouse has significantly reshaped the role of Chinese chambers of commerce in Malaysia. No longer confined to representing the interests of local Chinese Malaysian businesses, these organisations have become key players in advancing Malaysia-China economic relations. In recent years, however, they have increasingly been confronted with domestic challenges, chief among them the growing prominence of new Chinese migrants (xin yimin) in their midst, which has compounded pre-existing perceptions that Malaysia’s socio-economic divide mirrors its ethnic divide. As Malaysia continues to grapple with long-standing societal divisions, these chambers must navigate a delicate balancing act: strengthening economic ties with China while promoting socio-economic inclusion.
Chinese Chambers of Commerce: Balancing Malaysia-China Ties and Domestic Divides | FULCRUM
