MECHANISMS FOR STRENGTHENING SABAH-CHINA BILATERAL RELATIONS : THE ROLE OF PARADIPLOMACY (2018-2020)

Abstract

This study examines the strengthening of relations between Sabah and China, with a particular focus on the influence of paradiplomacy during Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad's tenure from 2018 to 2020. Although international relations typically emphasise state-to-state interactions, the direct involvement of sub-state entities such as Sabah (paradiplomacy) is equally crucial in global relations. This research period is significant due to a shift in Malaysia’s foreign policy. The findings indicate that Sabah-China relations have strengthened through heightened Chinese investments, a significant influx of Chinese tourists to Sabah, and enhanced cultural and educational partnerships. In all these cases, paradiplomacy was crucial in providing Sabah with direct commercial and social links with China and so supplementing the larger national relationship. This study demonstrates how subnational actors engage on the international stage. It additionally provides valuable recommendations for national and state foreign policies.