REGIONAL PARTNERS

Meanwhile, China and Malaysia have worked closely on international and regional issues.

"Malaysia has all along considered China as a true friend and partner in the pursuit of peace and prosperity in the region," said Malaysia's Foreign Minister Anifah.

On regional cooperation, Najib said that as a founding member of ASEAN, Malaysia stands ready to contribute to stronger China- ASEAN ties.

"Not only is China a dialogue partner with ASEAN, but it's also an integral part of the East Asia summit," he said during an October interview with Xinhua.

"Because of that, the relationship between China and ASEAN is very important and continues to grow particularly in terms of trade and China's involvement in major infrastructure projects in the whole region."

Analyst said relations and cooperation between Malaysian and China could serve as a shining example in the region.

"While both countries still have territorial disputes in the South China Sea, the undivided focus of their relationship is economic cooperation," said Oh Ei Sun, a political analyst and former political secretary to Najib.

When the two countries celebrate the 40th anniversary of bilateral ties in 2014, there is great potential in cooperation to be tapped into, including security, finance, trade, investment, military, technology, etc.

"I am pleased as a leader of government and at personal side that what was started in 1974 by my late father has today blossomed into a very important relationship between the two countries," said Najib.