S’pore & M’sia Relations Poised for Greater Heights, Says PM Lee, Invites Anwar to Leaders’ Retreat

In a toast, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong welcomed Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to Singapore and extended an invitation to the Singapore-Malaysia Leaders’ Retreat, which will be held in Singapore later in 2023.

First Official Visit as PM
Anwar’s visit marks his first official trip to Singapore since being appointed Prime Minister in late 2022. He was accompanied by his wife, former Deputy Prime Minister Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, and a ministerial delegation. During the visit, Anwar called on President Halimah Yacob, attended an official lunch, and had an orchid named after him and Wan Azizah.

PM Lee highlighted the long-standing relationship between the two leaders, dating back to when both served as ministers in their respective countries. He noted their fruitful discussions and commitment to advancing bilateral relations and resolving outstanding issues.

Physical and Trade Links
PM Lee emphasized the close ties between Singapore and Malaysia, citing the fully reopened Causeway and the Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link between Johor Bahru and Singapore, expected to open in 2026. He also mentioned that Singapore and Malaysia are each other’s second-biggest trading partners, with Singapore being Malaysia’s largest foreign investor, boasting over S$56 billion in direct investments.

Earlier in the day, the leaders witnessed the signing of agreements in digital partnerships and the green economy. PM Lee expressed confidence that with Anwar’s support, relations between the two nations could reach new heights.

Singapore-Malaysia Leaders’ Retreat
The upcoming retreat will offer both leaders the chance to discuss various bilateral issues. The last retreat was held in 2019 in Putrajaya. Since then, several leadership changes have occurred in Malaysia, and the retreat was interrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic.

No Issue Left Unresolved: Anwar
Anwar reiterated his commitment to resolving outstanding issues, including Causeway congestion and the RTS project. He also acknowledged the importance of President Halimah’s upcoming state visit to Malaysia, calling it a “clear signal” of vibrant bilateral relations.