SINGAPORE – The Singapore-Malaysia relationship can serve as a cornerstone for strengthening the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) amid global uncertainties, said Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on Tuesday (Jan 7) during the 11th Malaysia-Singapore Leaders’ Retreat in Putrajaya.
Highlighting the importance of regional unity in addressing geopolitical tensions and economic challenges, Mr. Wong stressed the need for ASEAN nations to work together on a “win-win basis.” Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim echoed these sentiments, advocating for a shift in focus from rivalry to leveraging mutual strengths.
Both leaders cited collaborative initiatives like the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone and the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System as examples of successful cooperation, while reaffirming their commitment to resolving complex bilateral issues involving airspace, maritime boundaries, and water.
Mr. Wong expressed Singapore’s full support for Malaysia’s ASEAN chairmanship, emphasizing the importance of a united and competitive ASEAN in a world increasingly shaped by superpower rivalry and economic shifts. Mr. Anwar called for ASEAN to strengthen its fundamentals to withstand global pressures, advocating for greater collaboration to ensure regional stability and growth.
The retreat underscored the critical role of bilateral ties, like those between Singapore and Malaysia, in fostering regional cohesion and addressing shared challenges effectively.