The High Commission of Malaysia in Singapore hosted a reception on 11 September 2025 at Shangri-La Singapore, celebrating Malaysia’s National Day and Malaysia Day while highlighting six decades of bilateral ties with Singapore.
SINGAPORE, 11 September 2025 – The High Commission of Malaysia in Singapore hosted a reception to mark the 68th National Day and 62nd Malaysia Day at Shangri-La Singapore on 11 September 2025. The event gathered diplomats, business leaders, government officials, and members of the Malaysian community, reflecting the depth of the bilateral relationship between Malaysia and Singapore.
Guest of Honour, His Excellency Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, Singapore’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, extended warm congratulations to Malaysia on behalf of the Government of Singapore. In his remarks, he noted, “Singapore and Malaysia share a unique bond – one defined by history, ties of kinship, and an acute appreciation that, no matter our differences from time to time, our futures are intertwined. As next-door neighbours, Singapore and Malaysia will always have a very real stake in the success of each other.”
The High Commissioner of Malaysia to Singapore, H.E. Dato’ Dr Azfar Mohamad Mustafar, also addressed the gathering. He reflected on Malaysia’s journey since independence and the unity upheld today, highlighting the 2025 theme “Malaysia Madani Raya Kesatuni” (Malaysia, People Care). He described Malaysia and Singapore as having built a “golden bridge of trust and kinship” over 60 years of diplomatic relations.
The evening also showcased the strength of economic and cultural cooperation between the two nations. Bilateral trade continues to expand, with a 9.4% increase recorded in 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. Total trade in 2024 reached USD 86.7 billion. Malaysia remains a key destination for Singaporean investment, while daily cross-border flows of people underscore the enduring people-to-people ties.
Dr Balakrishnan further emphasised the importance of deepening cooperation through projects such as the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) and the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link, scheduled to begin operations in 2026. He also highlighted joint cultural initiatives, including UNESCO nominations for the kebaya and Chingay parade, as well as education and volunteer exchanges.
The reception featured the participation of Malaysian organisations and companies, including Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, Echo World, Beyond Coast, and the Sarawak, Sabah, and Johor trade and tourism offices in Singapore.
In closing, both speakers reaffirmed the importance of continuing to strengthen bilateral ties, cooperation within ASEAN, and working together towards peace, prosperity, and progress in the region.
Source: IN Diplomacy Reporters
