Zaliha, who is on a six-day official visit to China, said the discussion was an extension of the KL20 Summit 2024 initiative in April, where the two cities signed a letter of intent to collaborate on KL20 projects focused on smart city technology and innovation.

“I also emphasised Kuala Lumpur’s willingness to establish strategic cooperation that can bring mutual benefits.

“I have extended an invitation to mayor Yao to visit Kuala Lumpur and further strengthen the bond between these two dynamic cities,” she said on X today.

Zaliha said she also told Yao about Kuala Lumpur’s interest in strengthening economic ties and exploring potential investment opportunities with Hangzhou for mutual benefit.

“Hopefully, this will give us the opportunity to share best practices in urban development and innovation.

“This afternoon, mayor Yao held a lunch for our delegation. The ‘laksa’ meal symbolises the cultural exchange and close relationship between Kuala Lumpur and Hangzhou,” she said.