Malaysia-China Friendship Park located in the Kuching neighbourhood of Jalan Song is a charming public park that symbolizes the long-standing diplomatic relationship between Malaysia and China.
The park was officially opened in 2004, which was designated as the Malaysia-China Friendship Year, to commemorate the 30th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Malaysia and the People’s Republic of China. The development of the park was a collaborative project between Kuching South City Council and the Municipal Council of Kunming.
The park’s design reflects the cultural friendship between the two nations, featuring separate Malaysian and Chinese themed sections divided by a tranquil pond. At the centre stands a statue of Zheng He, the legendary navigator and diplomat who led seven maritime expeditions between 1405 and 1433, reaching regions including Melaka and the South China Sea. The admiral was born near Kunming, which explains the city’s cultural connection to the park.
The Chinese entrance is marked by an ornate gateway featuring three arches, curved timber-and-concrete architecture, curved roofs, and traditional guardian figures including stone lions and the mythical Qilin.
Within the park is a Chinese-style tea pavilion built on stilts above the pond. One of its popular commercial attractions is the modern oriental milk tea outlet operated by CHAGEE, which has gained significant popularity among visitors.
A zigzag bridge stretches across the pond, connecting the tea house to the Hua Feng Pavilion (Kunming Pavilion). The pavilion’s architectural style is inspired by traditional structures commonly found in the Kunming and Yunnan region of China.
On the Malaysian side of the park, beside the Zheng He statue, stands a series of granite headstones known as the Malaysia Murals, representing the 13 Malaysian states and 3 Federal Territories, symbolizing national unity.
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Sunday 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM