KUCHING: Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin recently led a delegation on a study visit to China to explore transportation and river management innovations.
Throughout the visit from March 25 to 31, the delegation’s itinerary included key visits to institutions and sites dedicated to advancing sustainable transportation and development initiatives.
During a courtesy visit to the Ambassador of Malaysia to China Datuk Norman Muhamad, Lee also had the opportunity to visit the Global Sustainable Transport Innovation and Knowledge Centre (GSTIKC) in Beijing, further deepening collaboration opportunities between Malaysia and China in the transportation sector.
According to a press release by the ministry, GSTIKC is an entity under the Ministry of Transport of the People’s Republic of China that is dedicated to advancing the Global Development Initiative and supporting the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).
“Functioning as a pivotal hub for cooperation and collaboration, GSTIKC endeavours to foster sustainable transportation and development initiatives,” the press release said.
While in Tianjin, the delegation explored the Tianjin Research Institute for Water Transport Engineering (TIWTE), which had been at the forefront of research in science and technology related to transportation sector development since its establishment in 1974.
Lee and his delegation were warmly received by the vice presidents of TIWTE, Dai Mingxing and Feng Xiaoxiang, and briefed on ongoing research initiatives.
Lee also had the opportunity to tour the institute’s research facilities and laboratories, such as the Large Wave Flume Laboratory, Centrifuge Laboratory, and more.
Continuing their exploration of innovative transportation infrastructure, members of the delegation visited the barrage of the Haihe River and the Haihe River’s Sluice Gates Management Department, where they received insights into digitalisation initiatives and the crucial role of the barrage in flood and tide control.
In addition, the delegation visited the CCCC Tianjin Dredging Company (TDC) and Tianjin Port, where they were briefed on projects and witnessed firsthand the integration of 5G telecommunications and intelligent ICT infrastructures aimed at advancing towards an autonomous driving and environmentally friendly terminal.
Following their visit to Tianjin, the delegation proceeded to Yichang, China, to explore the Three Gorges Dam, Barrage, and shiplocks. The delegation received a comprehensive briefing on the history, planning, and construction of the aforesaid facilities.
Additionally, they had the opportunity to embark on a site visit, allowing them to witness firsthand the impressive structure of the dam, barrage and its shiplocks.
“Discussions with the Mayor of Yichang Municipal People’s Government Ma Zejiang emphasised the potential for cooperation between Sarawak and China in transportation, tourism, and green energy, with a focus on hydrogen energy,” the press release added.
Before returning to Malaysia, Lee met with Juneyao Airlines chief executive officer (CEO) and board chairman of Juneyao Group, Wang Junjin, to explore the possibility of extending their services to Sarawak.
Also present were Deputy Transport Deputy (Riverine & Marine) Datuk Harry Henry Jinep, a board member of the Sarawak Rivers Board (SRB) Chieng Jin Ek, and deputy Permanent Secretary of Transport Ministry Selamat Jati Yanjah, as well as other officers from the Transport Ministry and SRB.
