Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad says Malaysians working overseas should return to contribute to the nation's development.

Dr Mahathir said although the pay is low in Malaysia, the standard of living is relatively high.

He said this during a dinner with members of the Malaysian diaspora in Beijing.

He is currently on a five-day official visit to China, aimed at further strengthening the 44-year diplomatic ties between Kuala Lumpur and Beijing.