In 1974, Malaysia’s second prime minister Abdul Razak Hussein embarked on a journey to China, paving the way for a long and prosperous relationship between the two nations spanning four decades.

That journey is celebrated through the ‘Everlasting Friendship - Malaysia-China Pictorial’ exhibition, which takes viewers back to 1974 with a pictorial documentation of the historical visit, as well as Chinese leaders' visits to our shores.

Opening today at the Bangsar Shopping Centre in Kuala Lumpur, the 13-day exhibition will also feature a 24.4m-long mural made up of over 200 photographs, which was unveiled today.

Organised by the Malaysia-china Friendship Association and Canvas Arts Sdn Bhd, together with the Malaysian Tourism and Culture Ministry, the exhibition aimed to further sow the seeds of friendship between the two nations.

According to Malaysia-China Friendship Association president Abdul Majid Ahmad Khan, the historic pictorial records will enrich the public’s, especially the younger generation’s, understanding on our leaders’ contribution to the bilateral ties and development of Malaysia.

He also quoted a famous Chinese proverb “drink water but remember its source”, implying that Abdul Razak’s efforts in establishing solid diplomatic relations with China 40 years ago should be remembered and appreciated.  

   

The exhibition was officially opened by Tourism and Culture Ministry secretary-general Ong Hong Peng who paid tribute to Abdul Razak’s “bold and momentous journey”.

Ong ( right ) said the visit led to a major accomplishment in Malaysia’s foreign policy as Malaysia was the first Asean country to officially recognise China.

The event was also attended by several members of the 1974 delegation, as well as players from the ping-pong team and trade delegation that visited China in 1972.

As Malaysia and China marks its 40th year of bilateral ties, relationship between the two suffered heavy strain due to the mysterious disappearance of Beijing-bound Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370 on March 8, carrying 227 passengers, the majority of whom were Chinese nationals.

The incident even delayed the arrival of two Giant pandas from China, however, the furry pair ultimately arrived on a 10-year loan to Malaysia on May 21.