Anwar Quotes Chinese And Malay Proverbs In His Speech At Banquet With Chinese President Xi
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim quoted Confucius during his speech.
Cover image via Anwar Ibrahim (Facebook)Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim incorporated Chinese and Bahasa Melayu proverbs into his speech at a state banquet held in honour of Chinese President Xi Jinping yesterday, 16 April
The banquet began at around 6pm, with Anwar addressing Xi and the Chinese delegation from the stage.
"Malaysia and China have long stood shoulder to shoulder in moments of triumph and times of trial, not merely as comprehensive strategic partners, but as steadfast friends.
"Ours is a relationship forged in understanding and sustained by the enduring belief that we go further when we walk together – not only for ourselves, but for the peace and prosperity of our region," he said.
The prime minister highlighted China's active global engagement, citing key initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative, the Global Development Initiative, and the Global Civilisation Initiative, all of which reflect China's ongoing efforts to foster international cooperation.
"President Xi has described it as a community with a shared future for mankind.
"This brings to mind the famous saying of Confucius: 'Within the four seas, all men are brothers' (四海之内皆兄弟也)," said Anwar, prompting applause from the audience and a visible smile from Xi.
Image via Anwar Ibrahim (Facebook)
Later in his speech, Anwar referenced the Bahasa Melayu proverb _air dicincang tidak akan putus_ (you may cleave the water, yet it remains intact) to illustrate the enduring bond between Malaysia and China
Shortly before concluding, he invoked another Chinese proverb, "There is nothing difficult in the world, only those who lack the will" (世上无难事，只怕有心人) to commend Xi's courage of conviction and the tenacity of purpose.
Xi applauded upon hearing the remark, while Anwar expressed gratitude for the warm response to his attempt at speaking Chinese.
Image via Anwar Ibrahim (Facebook)
When Xi took the stage, he reciprocated the gesture by quoting the Bahasa Melayu proverb _sedikit-sedikit, lama-lama jadi bukit_ (many a little makes a mickle), emphasising the gradual strengthening of Malaysia-China relations over the past 50 years
Xi also noted that the historical friendship between the two nations dates back more than 1,000 years.
You can view the moments Anwar and Xi exchanged proverbs in the video below at these timestamps — 9:50, 16:00, and 23:53:
