THE HISTORICAL AND GEOGRAPHICAL DYNAMICS OF CHINA-MALAYSIA RELATIONS: REALISM AND LIBERALISM PERSPECTIVE

WANG YUNQI

doi:10.51200/jurnalkinabalu.v31i1.7122

Authors

WANG YUNQI School of Foreign Language, Harbin University, No. 109, Zhongxing Avenue, Nangang District, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, People's Republic of China (PRC), 150088

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51200/jurnalkinabalu.v31i1.7122

Keywords:

China-Malaysia Relations, Dynamics, South China Sea, Liberalism, Realism

Abstract

This study examines the historical and geographical dynamics of China-Malaysia relations through the theoretical lenses of Realism and Liberalism. Historically, interactions between China and the Malay world date back to early trade networks and diplomatic missions, reflecting deep cultural and economic exchanges. In the modern era, the relationship has evolved within the shifting geographical landscape of Southeast Asia, marked by colonial legacies, Cold War tensions, and contemporary strategic partnerships. While Malaysia holds a strategic position along critical maritime routes in the South China Sea, this underscores its significance in China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), while simultaneously exposing the relationship to challenges over territorial disputes and regional security concerns. This article adopts a qualitative methodological framework, integrating historical-analytical and comparative approaches to examine the evolution of China-Malaysia relations. Primary and secondary sources, including archival materials, government policy documents, treaties, and scholarly works, are systematically reviewed to trace the historical trajectories and geographical underpinnings of bilateral interaction. From the suggested perspective, this study highlights how national interest, security dilemmas, and power asymmetry continue to shape bilateral ties. Malaysia navigates between cooperation and cautious balancing, ensuring its sovereignty while accommodating China's rising influence. The perspective also underscores the role of interdependence, economic integration, and institutional cooperation, particularly through ASEAN in fostering stability and mutual benefits. By analysing both dimensions, this research argues that China-Malaysia relations cannot be understood solely through a single theoretical framework. Instead, the interplay of Realist competition and Liberalist cooperation provides a more comprehensive understanding of their historical continuity and contemporary relevance.

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