SINGAPORE — Malaysian Transport Minister Anthony Loke recently expressed the view that Singapore should be Malaysia's "best friend," as part of Prime
SINGAPORE — Malaysian Transport Minister Anthony Loke recently expressed the view that Singapore should be Malaysia’s “best friend,” as part of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s approach to bilateral relations. He made these remarks in response to a question about how Anwar sees the relationship between Malaysia and Singapore. Loke stated, “[I]f Indonesia is a true friend of Malaysia and Anwar, Singapore should be the best friend of Malaysia and Anwar.”
Loke, who is also the Secretary-General of the Democratic Action Party (DAP), was speaking at the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute’s annual Regional Outlook Forum on Jan. 10. His speech focused on Malaysia’s prospects in 2023, following the country’s 15th General Election and the formation of Anwar Ibrahim’s unity government.
During his address, Loke pointed out that the recent turnover of four prime ministers in five years signaled political instability in Malaysia. He emphasized that it is now his responsibility to ensure Anwar serves a full five-year term, as stability is crucial for the country.
Loke also touched on key transport issues, including the importance of stability in Malaysia-Singapore relations. He mentioned ongoing discussions with Singaporean transport officials and expressed his hope for enhanced connectivity, particularly through the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System, which he described as a priority for the next three to four years. Loke stressed that Singapore values stability and predictability in its dealings with Malaysia, adding, “there would be no surprises from me.”
When asked about Malaysia’s position on Pedra Branca (Pulau Batu Puteh), a long-standing territorial dispute, Loke deferred, noting that it was a matter for the foreign minister. However, he denied that foreign policy was being used for domestic political gain, instead focusing on the importance of addressing Malaysia’s domestic issues, such as improving Kuala Lumpur’s public transport system.
Loke concluded by acknowledging Anwar’s first official trip to Indonesia as part of a longstanding tradition for Malaysian prime ministers. With a smile, he reassured the audience that Singapore would be the next destination for Anwar’s official visit, quipping, “if Indonesia is a true friend of Malaysia and Anwar, Singapore should be the best friend.”
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