Malaysia and Singapore reaffirmed close bilateral ties, with discussions focusing on trade, investment and the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone
The High Commissioner of Malaysia to Singapore, H.E. Datin Paduka Anizan Siti Hajjar, met with Singapore’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan, on 19 August 2026. The meeting discussed the importance of Malaysia-Singapore relations, achievements benefiting people in both countries, and opportunities to strengthen cooperation across various areas.
The meeting marked an engagement between Singapore’s Foreign Minister and Malaysia’s newly appointed High Commissioner to Singapore. Discussions took place against the backdrop of longstanding bilateral relations supported by close economic, institutional and people-to-people ties.
Economic cooperation featured prominently in the discussions, with Malaysia and Singapore continuing to regard each other as key trading partners. Both sides also looked towards strengthening trade and investment cooperation, including through the operationalisation of the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ).
Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan welcomed High Commissioner Anizan Siti Hajjar to Singapore and expressed confidence in her contribution to further strengthening bilateral relations. He noted that Singapore and Malaysia shared a special relationship underpinned by shared history, strong people-to-people ties and close cooperation across multiple domains.
He also highlighted the High Commissioner’s long diplomatic career and expressed confidence that she would build on the work of her predecessors in advancing Singapore-Malaysia relations.
Source: Malaysia High Commission in Singapore
