Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer Leapmotor has announced plans to expand its presence in Southeast Asia and Latin America through partnerships with Stellantis. The company will begin producing cars for the Southeast Asian market in Malaysia via a deal with Stellantis. In Brazil, Leapmotor is set to launch two electric SUV models in 2025, including the B10, which will compete with the BYD Yuan. The B10 is confirmed as the second SUV model to be sold in Brazil under this collaboration. Additionally, the Chevrolet Captiva will return to the Brazilian market, based on a Chinese electric SUV platform, reflecting Stellantis' strategy to leverage Chinese EV technology in its regional offerings.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim met with Binance founder Changpeng Zhao (CZ) on April 22, 2025, to discuss Malaysia's potential to become a leader in digital assets and blockchain innovation. The discussions focused on how the country can adopt Bitcoin and enhance its position as a hub for cryptocurrency and blockchain technology. Anwar emphasized the importance of ongoing dialogue with regulators and the government's role in supporting responsible innovation and blockchain applications. The meeting highlighted Malaysia's ambition to boost its digital asset ecosystem and foster a regulatory environment conducive to blockchain development.

STM Savunma Teknolojileri Mühendislik ve Ticaret A.Ş. has developed and activated Turkey's first domestically produced Helicopter Visual Landing Aid Lighting System (HEGİDAS). This system, designed to support automated helicopter approach and deck lighting, has been integrated into a corvette built under an export project. The HEGİDAS system is set to be deployed on 12 different warships, including three corvettes in the Malaysian Corvette Project and vessels within Turkey's National Ship Project (MİLGEM). The activation marks a milestone in Turkey's pursuit of a fully independent defense industry. The system was integrated aboard a corvette constructed for export and will be used on domestic vessels as well. The development aligns with Turkey's broader naval modernization efforts, including the construction of the offshore patrol vessel AKHİSAR at Istanbul Shipyard Command under the main contractor ASFAT and designed by the Turkish Naval Forces Project Design Office.

Makine ve Kimya Endüstrisi A.Ş. (MKE) has developed a new loitering munition system that is cost-effective, can be produced rapidly, and is capable of being launched from multiple launchers. The system recently underwent successful testing in an electronic jamming environment, demonstrating its anti-jammer capabilities. These tests were conducted on April 17-18, 2025, in Konya Karapınar. In addition, MKE produces DENİZHAN, a fully domestic and national weapon system designed for naval platforms, capable of surface warfare, land bombardment, and air defense. DENİZHAN features a 76/62 mm caliber and a firing rate of 80 rounds per minute. Meanwhile, the Turkish national corvette TCG BÜYÜKADA (F-512), part of the MİLGEM project, has departed from Foça Naval Base to participate in the 17th Langkawi International Maritime, Aerospace and Defence Exhibition (LIMA 2025) in Malaysia. The participation aims to strengthen military relations with regional countries. Furthermore, the first Turkish national frigate, TCG İSTANBUL (F-515), has achieved a domestic production rate exceeding 80%, the highest among Turkish warships, surpassing the initial target of 75%.

Malaysia's durian export industry has experienced substantial growth, with frozen durian exports to China reaching 1.92 billion yuan in 2023, a sevenfold increase since 2018. Known for its diverse durian varieties characterized by large size, strong aroma, and spiky rind, Malaysia remains a key supplier. Meanwhile, China has begun cultivating its own durians, investing in large-scale planting and automated production methods to develop a domestic industry. Despite these efforts, questions remain about whether China's home-grown durians can compete with the established Southeast Asian producers. Additionally, Yunnan province in southwest China has seen growth in its blueberry industry, positioning it as a global supplier.

China has reinforced its diplomatic and economic ties with Malaysia and Cambodia during recent high-level engagements. Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, where both leaders emphasized the importance of maintaining peace, security, and stability in the South China Sea. They issued a joint statement underscoring the need for peaceful resolution of maritime disputes through direct consultations and negotiations among sovereign states. Anwar highlighted China as Malaysia's most important trading partner and a reliable ally amid global geopolitical uncertainties. Both countries also expressed opposition to unilateral tariff measures, aligning with ASEAN's stance. Concurrently, China and Cambodia signed a $1.2 billion agreement to develop a major canal project linking a branch of the Mekong River near Phnom Penh to a port on the Gulf of Thailand. This infrastructure initiative aims to enhance trade efficiency and strengthen supply chain cooperation. The two nations also committed to building safe and stable supply chains and expanding cooperation in transportation infrastructure. Cambodian officials and citizens have shown strong cultural and diplomatic support for China, with events celebrating the bilateral friendship and a trend in learning Chinese. Xi also expressed willingness to upgrade China-ASEAN free trade ties, advocating for regional stability based on Asian values of peace, cooperation, openness, and inclusiveness in response to global uncertainties.

Stellantis is exploring production of Chinese electric vehicles in Brazil and has formed a joint venture with Chinese EV maker Leapmotor to start local assembly in Malaysia by the end of 2025. The partnership will produce Leapmotor's C10 SUV and B10 models, including the C10 RS variant, with plans to gradually scale up production through 2030. This Malaysian facility is expected to serve as a manufacturing base for ASEAN countries. The joint venture represents a collaborative model between Chinese and Western automotive companies in a neutral market environment.

China and Malaysia have officially signed a mutual visa exemption agreement for holders of official and ordinary passports, as announced during President Xi Jinping's visit to Malaysia. The agreement aims to boost cross-border travel, business, tourism, and cooperation in various fields, further strengthening the long-standing friendship between the two countries. In 2024, nearly six million mutual visits were recorded between China and Malaysia, and the visa exemption is expected to enhance the China-Malaysia community with a shared future. The move has been welcomed by the Malaysian Chinese community, who recognize the positive impact of China's prosperity on their lives and express strong cultural and emotional ties to China.

During a state visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping to Malaysia, the two countries signed 31 cooperation agreements spanning various sectors including artificial intelligence, agriculture, and infrastructure. The agreements aim to enhance bilateral trade and industrial collaboration, reflecting a commitment to the Belt and Road Initiative and regional economic integration.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim expressed strong support for China's global initiatives, emphasizing the importance of collective responsibility and cooperation in a changing geopolitical landscape. He highlighted China's role in opening new spaces for reform and cooperation, contrasting it with some countries' tendencies to abandon shared responsibility.

Read more

Morocco's economy showed a rebound in early 2025 after a moderate growth of 3.6% in the fourth quarter of 2024, according to the Haut-Commissariat au Plan (HCP). The national economy grew by 4.2% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2025, driven by a recovery in agricultural activity and resilient merchant services supported by sustained domestic demand. Inflation in Morocco rose to 2.2% in the first quarter of 2025, up from 0.7% in the previous quarter. Looking ahead, the economy is expected to continue growing at 3.8% in the second quarter of 2025, still fueled by domestic demand. Meanwhile, Malaysia's economy expanded by 4.4% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2025, slower than expected, due to weaker growth in manufacturing and construction sectors. Despite this, Malaysia's exports to the United States surged in March, although authorities have expressed concerns over uncertainties caused by impending U.S. tariffs.

China and Malaysia issued a joint statement reaffirming that Gaza is an inalienable part of the territory of Palestine. The statement called for the full and effective implementation of the ceasefire agreement in Gaza. Additionally, the two countries opposed the forced displacement of Gaza's residents and advocated for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state based on the two-state solution.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim have agreed to establish a high-level strategic China-Malaysia community with a shared future, aiming to accelerate modernization efforts and promote regional and global prosperity and stability. During their meeting, Xi Jinping proposed a three-point plan to build this community, which includes adhering to strategic autonomy and deepening high-level strategic cooperation, strengthening development synergy, and enhancing mutual collaboration to address the evolving global situation. The initiative reflects both countries' commitment to fostering closer ties and coordinated development.

China's tennis industry has experienced notable growth, with the number of tennis participants exceeding 25 million as of August 31, 2024, marking an increase of nearly 30% from approximately 20 million in 2021. The country now has over 53,800 tennis courts, an 8.1% rise since 2021, and 43,981 registered tennis coaches nationwide, according to a report released by the Tennis Administrative Center of the General Administration of Sport of China. Alongside tennis, cultural and sports exchanges between China and Malaysia are strengthening, particularly in badminton and esports. Malaysian badminton stars, including Olympic bronze medalist Lee Zii Jia, have highlighted the benefits of training with Chinese athletes and the positive experiences competing in China. Malaysian esports players, such as Hazziq "Stormie" Rizwan of team SRG, express enthusiasm for participating in competitions in China and aim for victories in upcoming tournaments like MSC and M7. Additionally, China is promoting itself as a hub for tennis masters events in Asia, aiming to boost interest and infrastructure in the sport. In related cultural exchanges, Chinese and American students recently played a friendly pickleball match in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, as part of a tour fostering international connections.

For the Marvel film 'Thunderbolts,' actress Florence Pugh insisted on performing a daring stunt that involved jumping off the second tallest building in the world, a 2,722-foot skyscraper in Malaysia. Despite initial concerns from Marvel Studios, Pugh persistently urged Marvel president Kevin Feige to allow her to execute the jump, believing it would positively impact the film's press tour. Pugh described her efforts as being a "sassy Karen" in emails to Feige. The stunt was ultimately filmed and featured in a new clip from 'Thunderbolts.' Meanwhile, co-star Hailee Steinfeld expressed enthusiasm about working again with Pugh and is excited about her own future in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) as the character Kate Bishop.

An Indian-origin Malaysian man has been jailed and fined for smuggling a puppy into Singapore. The incident involved the illegal transportation of the dog across the border, leading to legal consequences for the individual. Authorities in Singapore took action against the smuggling attempt, emphasizing enforcement of regulations related to animal importation. The case highlights ongoing challenges in preventing unauthorized animal trafficking in the region.

Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, the former Prime Minister of Malaysia, has died at the age of 85, according to family and state media reports. Badawi, who served as Prime Minister from 2003 to 2009, was noted for his moderate leadership and efforts to expand political freedoms in Malaysia. He passed away on April 13, 2025, after being hospitalized due to respiratory issues and subsequently placed in intensive care. His death was confirmed by various sources, including family members and medical authorities, who cited heart disease as a contributing factor. Badawi, affectionately known as 'Pak Lah', succeeded long-time leader Mahathir Mohamad and was involved in improving Malaysia's foreign relations during his tenure.

The 2025 Badminton Asia Championships concluded in Ningbo, China, with notable performances from the Chinese badminton team, which secured two golds and three silver medals. Chen Yufei claimed her first title at the championships, overcoming compatriot Han Yue with scores of 11-21, 21-14, 21-9. In women's doubles, the gold medal was awarded to China's Liu Shengshu and Tan Ning, while Japan's Nami Matsuyama and Chiharu Shida took silver. The men's doubles title went to Malaysia's Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik, marking Malaysia's first title in the event in 18 years. They defeated China's Chen Boyang and Liu Yi with scores of 21-19, 21-17. In diving, Olympic champion Chen Yuxi won her second World Cup title in the women's 10m platform event, edging out her partner Quan Hongchan in Windsor, Canada, with a score of 417.55 points to Quan's 407.55.

Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer Leapmotor has announced plans to expand its presence in Southeast Asia and Latin America through partnerships with Stellantis. The company will begin producing cars for the Southeast Asian market in Malaysia via a deal with Stellantis. In Brazil, Leapmotor is set to launch two electric SUV models in 2025, including the B10, which will compete with the BYD Yuan. The B10 is confirmed as the second SUV model to be sold in Brazil under this collaboration. Additionally, the Chevrolet Captiva will return to the Brazilian market, based on a Chinese electric SUV platform, reflecting Stellantis' strategy to leverage Chinese EV technology in its regional offerings.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim met with Binance founder Changpeng Zhao (CZ) on April 22, 2025, to discuss Malaysia's potential to become a leader in digital assets and blockchain innovation. The discussions focused on how the country can adopt Bitcoin and enhance its position as a hub for cryptocurrency and blockchain technology. Anwar emphasized the importance of ongoing dialogue with regulators and the government's role in supporting responsible innovation and blockchain applications. The meeting highlighted Malaysia's ambition to boost its digital asset ecosystem and foster a regulatory environment conducive to blockchain development.

STM Savunma Teknolojileri Mühendislik ve Ticaret A.Ş. has developed and activated Turkey's first domestically produced Helicopter Visual Landing Aid Lighting System (HEGİDAS). This system, designed to support automated helicopter approach and deck lighting, has been integrated into a corvette built under an export project. The HEGİDAS system is set to be deployed on 12 different warships, including three corvettes in the Malaysian Corvette Project and vessels within Turkey's National Ship Project (MİLGEM). The activation marks a milestone in Turkey's pursuit of a fully independent defense industry. The system was integrated aboard a corvette constructed for export and will be used on domestic vessels as well. The development aligns with Turkey's broader naval modernization efforts, including the construction of the offshore patrol vessel AKHİSAR at Istanbul Shipyard Command under the main contractor ASFAT and designed by the Turkish Naval Forces Project Design Office.

Makine ve Kimya Endüstrisi A.Ş. (MKE) has developed a new loitering munition system that is cost-effective, can be produced rapidly, and is capable of being launched from multiple launchers. The system recently underwent successful testing in an electronic jamming environment, demonstrating its anti-jammer capabilities. These tests were conducted on April 17-18, 2025, in Konya Karapınar. In addition, MKE produces DENİZHAN, a fully domestic and national weapon system designed for naval platforms, capable of surface warfare, land bombardment, and air defense. DENİZHAN features a 76/62 mm caliber and a firing rate of 80 rounds per minute. Meanwhile, the Turkish national corvette TCG BÜYÜKADA (F-512), part of the MİLGEM project, has departed from Foça Naval Base to participate in the 17th Langkawi International Maritime, Aerospace and Defence Exhibition (LIMA 2025) in Malaysia. The participation aims to strengthen military relations with regional countries. Furthermore, the first Turkish national frigate, TCG İSTANBUL (F-515), has achieved a domestic production rate exceeding 80%, the highest among Turkish warships, surpassing the initial target of 75%.

Malaysia's durian export industry has experienced substantial growth, with frozen durian exports to China reaching 1.92 billion yuan in 2023, a sevenfold increase since 2018. Known for its diverse durian varieties characterized by large size, strong aroma, and spiky rind, Malaysia remains a key supplier. Meanwhile, China has begun cultivating its own durians, investing in large-scale planting and automated production methods to develop a domestic industry. Despite these efforts, questions remain about whether China's home-grown durians can compete with the established Southeast Asian producers. Additionally, Yunnan province in southwest China has seen growth in its blueberry industry, positioning it as a global supplier.

China has reinforced its diplomatic and economic ties with Malaysia and Cambodia during recent high-level engagements. Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, where both leaders emphasized the importance of maintaining peace, security, and stability in the South China Sea. They issued a joint statement underscoring the need for peaceful resolution of maritime disputes through direct consultations and negotiations among sovereign states. Anwar highlighted China as Malaysia's most important trading partner and a reliable ally amid global geopolitical uncertainties. Both countries also expressed opposition to unilateral tariff measures, aligning with ASEAN's stance. Concurrently, China and Cambodia signed a $1.2 billion agreement to develop a major canal project linking a branch of the Mekong River near Phnom Penh to a port on the Gulf of Thailand. This infrastructure initiative aims to enhance trade efficiency and strengthen supply chain cooperation. The two nations also committed to building safe and stable supply chains and expanding cooperation in transportation infrastructure. Cambodian officials and citizens have shown strong cultural and diplomatic support for China, with events celebrating the bilateral friendship and a trend in learning Chinese. Xi also expressed willingness to upgrade China-ASEAN free trade ties, advocating for regional stability based on Asian values of peace, cooperation, openness, and inclusiveness in response to global uncertainties.

Stellantis is exploring production of Chinese electric vehicles in Brazil and has formed a joint venture with Chinese EV maker Leapmotor to start local assembly in Malaysia by the end of 2025. The partnership will produce Leapmotor's C10 SUV and B10 models, including the C10 RS variant, with plans to gradually scale up production through 2030. This Malaysian facility is expected to serve as a manufacturing base for ASEAN countries. The joint venture represents a collaborative model between Chinese and Western automotive companies in a neutral market environment.

China and Malaysia have officially signed a mutual visa exemption agreement for holders of official and ordinary passports, as announced during President Xi Jinping's visit to Malaysia. The agreement aims to boost cross-border travel, business, tourism, and cooperation in various fields, further strengthening the long-standing friendship between the two countries. In 2024, nearly six million mutual visits were recorded between China and Malaysia, and the visa exemption is expected to enhance the China-Malaysia community with a shared future. The move has been welcomed by the Malaysian Chinese community, who recognize the positive impact of China's prosperity on their lives and express strong cultural and emotional ties to China.

During a state visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping to Malaysia, the two countries signed 31 cooperation agreements spanning various sectors including artificial intelligence, agriculture, and infrastructure. The agreements aim to enhance bilateral trade and industrial collaboration, reflecting a commitment to the Belt and Road Initiative and regional economic integration.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim expressed strong support for China's global initiatives, emphasizing the importance of collective responsibility and cooperation in a changing geopolitical landscape. He highlighted China's role in opening new spaces for reform and cooperation, contrasting it with some countries' tendencies to abandon shared responsibility.

Read more

Morocco's economy showed a rebound in early 2025 after a moderate growth of 3.6% in the fourth quarter of 2024, according to the Haut-Commissariat au Plan (HCP). The national economy grew by 4.2% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2025, driven by a recovery in agricultural activity and resilient merchant services supported by sustained domestic demand. Inflation in Morocco rose to 2.2% in the first quarter of 2025, up from 0.7% in the previous quarter. Looking ahead, the economy is expected to continue growing at 3.8% in the second quarter of 2025, still fueled by domestic demand. Meanwhile, Malaysia's economy expanded by 4.4% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2025, slower than expected, due to weaker growth in manufacturing and construction sectors. Despite this, Malaysia's exports to the United States surged in March, although authorities have expressed concerns over uncertainties caused by impending U.S. tariffs.

China and Malaysia issued a joint statement reaffirming that Gaza is an inalienable part of the territory of Palestine. The statement called for the full and effective implementation of the ceasefire agreement in Gaza. Additionally, the two countries opposed the forced displacement of Gaza's residents and advocated for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state based on the two-state solution.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim have agreed to establish a high-level strategic China-Malaysia community with a shared future, aiming to accelerate modernization efforts and promote regional and global prosperity and stability. During their meeting, Xi Jinping proposed a three-point plan to build this community, which includes adhering to strategic autonomy and deepening high-level strategic cooperation, strengthening development synergy, and enhancing mutual collaboration to address the evolving global situation. The initiative reflects both countries' commitment to fostering closer ties and coordinated development.

China's tennis industry has experienced notable growth, with the number of tennis participants exceeding 25 million as of August 31, 2024, marking an increase of nearly 30% from approximately 20 million in 2021. The country now has over 53,800 tennis courts, an 8.1% rise since 2021, and 43,981 registered tennis coaches nationwide, according to a report released by the Tennis Administrative Center of the General Administration of Sport of China. Alongside tennis, cultural and sports exchanges between China and Malaysia are strengthening, particularly in badminton and esports. Malaysian badminton stars, including Olympic bronze medalist Lee Zii Jia, have highlighted the benefits of training with Chinese athletes and the positive experiences competing in China. Malaysian esports players, such as Hazziq "Stormie" Rizwan of team SRG, express enthusiasm for participating in competitions in China and aim for victories in upcoming tournaments like MSC and M7. Additionally, China is promoting itself as a hub for tennis masters events in Asia, aiming to boost interest and infrastructure in the sport. In related cultural exchanges, Chinese and American students recently played a friendly pickleball match in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, as part of a tour fostering international connections.

For the Marvel film 'Thunderbolts,' actress Florence Pugh insisted on performing a daring stunt that involved jumping off the second tallest building in the world, a 2,722-foot skyscraper in Malaysia. Despite initial concerns from Marvel Studios, Pugh persistently urged Marvel president Kevin Feige to allow her to execute the jump, believing it would positively impact the film's press tour. Pugh described her efforts as being a "sassy Karen" in emails to Feige. The stunt was ultimately filmed and featured in a new clip from 'Thunderbolts.' Meanwhile, co-star Hailee Steinfeld expressed enthusiasm about working again with Pugh and is excited about her own future in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) as the character Kate Bishop.

An Indian-origin Malaysian man has been jailed and fined for smuggling a puppy into Singapore. The incident involved the illegal transportation of the dog across the border, leading to legal consequences for the individual. Authorities in Singapore took action against the smuggling attempt, emphasizing enforcement of regulations related to animal importation. The case highlights ongoing challenges in preventing unauthorized animal trafficking in the region.

Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, the former Prime Minister of Malaysia, has died at the age of 85, according to family and state media reports. Badawi, who served as Prime Minister from 2003 to 2009, was noted for his moderate leadership and efforts to expand political freedoms in Malaysia. He passed away on April 13, 2025, after being hospitalized due to respiratory issues and subsequently placed in intensive care. His death was confirmed by various sources, including family members and medical authorities, who cited heart disease as a contributing factor. Badawi, affectionately known as 'Pak Lah', succeeded long-time leader Mahathir Mohamad and was involved in improving Malaysia's foreign relations during his tenure.

The 2025 Badminton Asia Championships concluded in Ningbo, China, with notable performances from the Chinese badminton team, which secured two golds and three silver medals. Chen Yufei claimed her first title at the championships, overcoming compatriot Han Yue with scores of 11-21, 21-14, 21-9. In women's doubles, the gold medal was awarded to China's Liu Shengshu and Tan Ning, while Japan's Nami Matsuyama and Chiharu Shida took silver. The men's doubles title went to Malaysia's Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik, marking Malaysia's first title in the event in 18 years. They defeated China's Chen Boyang and Liu Yi with scores of 21-19, 21-17. In diving, Olympic champion Chen Yuxi won her second World Cup title in the women's 10m platform event, edging out her partner Quan Hongchan in Windsor, Canada, with a score of 417.55 points to Quan's 407.55.