Strengthening Bonds and Future Collaboration Between Brunei and Singapore

Singapore, 26 February 2025 – The High Commission of Brunei Darussalam in Singapore hosted a reception to celebrate the nation’s 41st National Day, highlighting its achievements under the leadership of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah. The event, attended by business leaders, dignitaries, and officials from both nations, reinforced the enduring bilateral relationship and outlined areas for future collaboration.

H.E. Hajah Noor Qamar Haji Sulaiman, High Commissioner of Brunei Darussalam, welcomed esteemed guests, including Minister Grace Fu, Singapore’s Minister for Sustainability and the Environment as the Guest of Honour, and Members of Parliament Mr Henry Kwek and Mr Christopher de Souza. She expressed gratitude for their presence and underscored the theme of this year’s celebration, Bersatu Mencapai Cita Negara (United in Achieving the Nation’s Aspiration), which reflects Brunei’s commitment to unity, patriotism, and progress under its Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB) philosophy.

“Our two nations share a unique and deeply rooted friendship built on trust, respect, and shared values,” said the High Commissioner. “As we commemorate Brunei’s 41st National Day, we reaffirm our commitment to strengthening this partnership across various sectors, including trade, sustainability, and education.”

Brunei and Singapore share a longstanding relationship that predates the formal diplomatic ties established in 1984. This connection was first forged through the personal friendship between Brunei’s late Sultan Haji Omar Ali Saifuddien III and Singapore’s founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew. Over the past four decades, the relationship has deepened through high-level exchanges, economic partnerships, and cultural collaborations.

Minister Grace Fu echoed these sentiments, highlighting the many milestones in the past year, including state visits by Singapore’s President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and Prime Minister Lawrence Wong to Brunei, as well as Brunei’s Crown Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah’s participation in the Singapore-Brunei Young Leaders’ Programme. “Singapore and Brunei have a long history of cooperation, and we continue to find new opportunities to collaborate,” said Minister Foo. “From advancing sustainable development to strengthening our trade partnerships, our nations remain steadfast in supporting each other’s progress.”

Beyond diplomatic exchanges, Singapore and Brunei collaborate extensively across multiple sectors. Trade relations have expanded, with Brunei’s food exports—such as eggs and processed beef—growing significantly in Singapore. Joint initiatives in low-carbon energy, vaccine capacity, and environmental sustainability further demonstrate the strength of their cooperation. The annual Brunei-Singapore Environmental Exchange and the Brunei Darussalam-Singapore Work Placement Programme continue to enhance knowledge sharing and professional development between the two countries.

As both nations look towards the future, they remain committed to strengthening economic, educational, and environmental cooperation. The 60th anniversary of the Currency Interchangeability Agreement in 2027 will be another testament to their robust financial and economic ties. Through continued collaboration and mutual support, Brunei and Singapore aim to foster even closer relations for the benefit of their citizens.

To commemorate the occasion, guests at the reception were treated to a taste of Brunei, including the well-loved prawn crackers, generously provided by Brunei Halal Food and Royal Brunei Airlines.

Source: IN Diplomacy Reporters