China has recognised Malaysia's efforts in steering negotiations toward a Code of Conduct (COC) for the South China Sea, with discussions now at a pivotal juncture. Speaking at a media briefing in Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday, China's Ambassador to Malaysia Ouyang Yujing commended the nation's role in helping to broker an agreement that could underpin regional security. The COC is intended to establish a legal framework ensuring enduring peace across the contested maritime zone.

Ouyang highlighted the depth of engagement between Beijing and Kuala Lumpur on maritime governance, noting that the two countries have maintained steady dialogue on managing South China Sea issues through bilateral channels. Malaysia holds a co-chair position overseeing the mechanism responsible for implementing the existing Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, a distinction the ambassador acknowledged as vital. The ambassador's remarks came in response to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's recent pledge to drive forward the COC negotiations.

With negotiations having reached a decisive stage, Ouyang indicated that all stakeholders aim to complete the agreement within the targeted timeframe. Multiple ASEAN leaders have publicly stated their desire to see the COC finalised this year. China remains committed to working collaboratively with partners, the ambassador said, pledging to bridge differences while pursuing shared objectives that would solidify institutional safeguards for regional peace.

Beyond maritime affairs, Ouyang pointed to the strengthened bilateral relationship between China and Malaysia, particularly following President Xi Jinping's state visit to Malaysia the previous year. High-level diplomatic exchanges have reached unprecedented levels, with Premier Li Qiang making two visits to Malaysia and Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim completing his fourth trip to China since assuming office. These frequent interactions have reinforced political confidence between the nations and opened new avenues for sectoral collaboration, the ambassador concluded.