China Radio International (CRI) teamed up with Malaysia's Institute of Language and Literature (DBP) in a collaboration to publish books on Chinese culture and history in the Malay language.

Speaking at the launching ceremony of the joint effort, DPB's director-general Abang Sallehuddin Abang Shokeran said the collaboration serves as another opportunity for locals to understand the art and culture of China and its people.

"Malaysia and China have had a long-standing cooperation. We hope the people will get to know more about the arts and culture of the Chinese people because we have a very close relationship," he said.

CRI Publisher and Representative in Malaysia Selina Dong Xiaoping said the publication of the books was an excellent way for Malaysians to learn about China.

"We want to find an approach that is accessible to the public through publishing books, magazines, and videos on tourism or culture especially for Malaysians," she said. "Nowadays many people use social media and a lot of information is available. So we want to play a role in fostering mutual understanding between China and Malaysia with books of our own work," she said.

The published books, Kenali Xi'an (Learn about Xi'an) and Koleksi Cerita Klasik China (Classic Chinese Stories), will allow the country's Malay speaking audience to learn about China and its people in their own language.