On June 12, 2024, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong of Singapore and Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim of Malaysia held a joint press conference in Kuala Lumpur. The meeting, part of PM Wong’s introductory visits to Southeast Asian capitals, focused on deepening bilateral ties and exploring new areas of cooperation.
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong began his opening remarks by expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim for his warm hospitality and kind words. He highlighted that PM Anwar was the first foreign leader to call him after he was sworn in, inviting him to make an early visit to Malaysia, which PM Wong eagerly accepted.
PM Wong emphasized the importance of establishing a good working rapport and relationship with PM Anwar. Over a meal and dessert of durians, they discussed various ideas to deepen bilateral ties. PM Wong affirmed Singapore’s commitment to pursuing win-win cooperation with Malaysia across multiple sectors, including health, education, culture, trade, investments, connectivity, and emerging areas like the digital economy and renewable energy.
Two promising joint projects were highlighted: the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone and the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System Link. Both projects aim to enhance cross-border flow of people, goods, and investments, benefiting both nations.
Acknowledging the increasingly dangerous and unpredictable global environment, PM Wong stressed the need for Singapore and Malaysia to work closely together for positive outcomes. He noted the cultural, kinship, and historical ties between the two countries, and their shared commitment to inclusive societies, good governance, and social harmony.
PM Wong and PM Anwar engaged in candid discussions on outstanding bilateral issues such as airspace, water, and maritime delimitation. They agreed to provide strategic direction for their officials to progress on these discussions, aiming to review them at the upcoming Leaders’ Retreat. While recognizing the complexity of these issues, they remain committed to managing them constructively to ensure the flourishing of their bilateral relationship.
Looking ahead, PM Wong expressed confidence in Malaysia’s upcoming ASEAN Chairmanship under PM Anwar’s leadership, anticipating further development and integration within ASEAN and stronger relations with external partners.
In closing, PM Wong thanked PM Anwar for his strong support and extended his eagerness to return for the Leaders’ Retreat later in the year, aiming to elevate their bilateral relations to greater heights.
Source – PMO
