Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has praised Chinese President Xi Jinping's perspective on development, which emphasizes the need to place value on human, cultural, and civilizational development alongside economic growth, and said this vision aligns well with Malaysia's own policy framework
In an exclusive interview with China Media Group (CMG) on Monday, Anwar shared his admiration for Xi's leadership as he prepared to welcome the Chinese president for a state visit to Malaysia on Tuesday.
The Malaysian prime minister, who last met with Xi in Beijing last November, said Xi's vision closely aligns with his administration's own "Malaysia Madani" framework, which promotes values-based governance, humanitarianism and a more global outlook.
"During my meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, I mentioned and even asked why his thoughts are so different and unique. It is because President Xi focuses on cultural exchange, civilization, mutual learning, and shared prosperity. This kind of demeanor is not commonly seen in political figures of this era. This aligns with the vision of 'Malaysia Madani', which also emphasizes values, humanitarianism and a global perspective. It presents a spirit dedicated to building civilization. President Xi's response was very interesting. He said, 'Indeed, we need to develop the economy, but human development cannot be separated from history, culture and civilization'," he said.
While Anwar expects his talks with Xi to again cover a wide range of important fields, he stressed the importance of maintaining a "humanistic spirit" in discussions. In this regard, he said he has been impressed by President Xi's recognition of shared values across different backgrounds, which comes under Xi's vision of building a community with a shared future for mankind.
"We often discuss topics such as the economy, technology, digitalization, and artificial intelligence. Of course, these are extremely important. But we also need to have a humanistic spirit. For example, in Malaysia, we are also actively promoting the dialogue between Islam and Confucianism. This has received positive recognition from President Xi Jinping. When he talked about the 'Malaysia Madani' concept, he specifically mentioned the common values of Islamic and Confucian civilizations. This perception impressed me deeply. Only great leaders and thinkers can have such foresight and not just see the simple material needs," said Anwar.
Malaysia is the second leg of Xi's current five-day, three-nation Southeast Asia tour, which began with a two-day state visit to Vietnam, and will also take him to Cambodia for a state visit.
Malaysian PM hails Xi's vision for development
China's new "silver trains" are transforming senior travel from a logistical hurdle into a seamless adventure, offering onboard AI-powered classes, emergency medical support, and tracking devices, all designed for passengers aged 65 to 70.
Recently in Jinan, east China's Shandong Province, hundreds of excited senior citizens boarded one of China's innovative "silver trains", a groundbreaking travel service designed specifically for elderly passengers.
The train set off on a weeklong journey to Sichuan Province in southwest China, carrying over 400 senior passengers with an average age of 70. Designed for comfort and engagement, the specially configured train offered more than just transportation. Each traveler received a comprehensive guide featuring weather forecasts, outfit recommendations, and a schedule of onboard activities, from AI workshops to traditional Chinese ear therapy sessions.
"I have finally relaxed and gone on a trip. Even though it's my first time, it feels so familiar, just like coming home," said a first-time traveler, reflecting on the welcoming atmosphere.
"They even have group leaders, medical staff, plus opportunities to learn, sing, and join photography contests. They've really thought of everything," said another passenger.
Xu Mei, deputy secretary of China Railway Shandong Culture and Tourism Group, highlighted the rising demand for senior-friendly travel experiences.
"As our living standards have improved, I feel that retirees are now seeking more fulfillment on a spiritual and emotional level. Silver trains are a great way for seniors to travel," she said.
The journey featured cultural visits to historical landmarks such as Huangze Temple and breathtaking natural landscapes like Jiuzhaigou Valley.
For 70-year-old Wang Jingke, a former professor, the trip fulfilled her lifelong dream.
"I have dreamed of this place (Jiuzhaigou Valley). I finally made it," she said.
Meanwhile, enhanced safety measures ensure peace of mind, featuring portable tracking devices for added security.
"Xiaowen, can you hear me?" Wang tested her device, to which the tour guide promptly responded, "I see your location."
Medical support is available onboard, with emergency SOS devices equipped with cords installed throughout the carriages for safety.
"The SOS emergency signal can help with location tracking. There's a rope attached to it. For elderly passengers, especially those who are weak or suddenly fall seriously ill, they can pull the rope. This way, the monitoring center can accurately pinpoint their location, and our doctors can reach the area immediately," explained former physician Li Qiuping.
With China's population aged beyond 60 exceeding 300 million, accounting 22 percent of the total, experts see great potential in such senior-focused services.
Liu Xiangdong, an associate professor of the School of Economics and Management at the University of Science and Technology Beijing suggested future improvements.
"In terms of accessibility and safety, the train can improve the aisle slope, add more accessible restrooms in the future, to reduce the risk of falls for seniors. To accommodate age-related changes in vision and hearing, features like voice-controlled lighting and VR viewing devices could be introduced," Liu said.
As these silver-haired travelers attend classes, make new friends, and explore scenic destinations with tailored support, China's silver trains are redefining what retirement travel can be, turning what was once a challenging experience into a comfortable, enriching adventure.
China's "silver trains" redefine senior travel with customized services
