Singapore, Malaysia to Amicably Resolve Water, Other Pending Issues: PM Wong, Anwar

Singapore and Malaysia have agreed to amicably resolve outstanding issues, including water and other pending matters, following a meeting between Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. On January 30, 2023, the two leaders met in Singapore and reaffirmed the strong and long-standing ties between their countries. They discussed various bilateral issues, including the water agreement between Singapore and the Malaysian state of Johor, which has been a source of tension in the past. PM Wong emphasized the importance of resolving water issues amicably. “Water is a critical resource for both our countries, and we need to find a mutually acceptable solution,” he said. PM Anwar expressed Malaysia’s commitment to finding a fair and equitable solution. “We are committed to resolving all outstanding issues, including the water agreement, in a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect,” he said. The leaders also touched upon other pending matters such as the Proton Wira, an issue related to Malaysian-registered cars using Singapore’s roads, and the development of Iskandar Malaysia, a special economic zone in Johor. PM Wong said that Singapore would continue to support Iskandar Malaysia’s development. “We believe that a thriving Iskandar will benefit both Singapore and Malaysia,” he said. PM Anwar welcomed Singapore’s support and emphasized Malaysia’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for investment. The meeting between the two leaders was seen as a positive step towards resolving outstanding issues and strengthening bilateral relations. Both PM Wong and PM Anwar expressed confidence that their countries could work together to find mutually beneficial solutions.Singapore and Malaysia Resolve to Enhance Bilateral Relations

Singapore and Malaysia Resolve to Enhance Bilateral Relations

Prime Ministers Lawrence Wong of Singapore and Anwar Ibrahim of Malaysia have expressed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and resolving outstanding issues such as airspace, water, and maritime boundaries. At a joint press conference, Prime Minister Wong emphasized that despite the complexity of these issues, both nations are dedicated to managing them in a way that fosters the continued growth of their partnership. Prime Minister Anwar reciprocated this sentiment, expressing hope that the issues could be resolved before their annual retreat later this year, while acknowledging that this goal might be ambitious. The leaders emphasized the significance of resolving these issues as a symbol of good neighborliness and cooperation. Prime Minister Anwar stated, “I look forward to that kind of final, amicable resolution.” Prime Minister Wong, making his first overseas trip since assuming office in May, highlighted his priority of establishing a strong relationship with Prime Minister Anwar. He noted the close ties that former Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong had established with the Malaysian leader and expressed optimism that his visit to Kuala Lumpur had further strengthened their bond. The leaders enjoyed a meal together, including durians for dessert, as a testament to their growing relationship.Singapore and Malaysia have agreed to amicably resolve outstanding issues, including water and other pending matters, according to Prime Minister Wong and newly-elected Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. The two leaders met on Thursday for their first bilateral meeting, reaffirming strong ties. During the meeting, both leaders discussed ways to strengthen cooperation in various areas, including trade, investment, and infrastructure connectivity. They also touched upon the issue of water and other pending matters, expressing their commitment to resolving them amicably. Prime Minister Wong stated that “Singapore and Malaysia have a long-standing relationship built on close cooperation and mutual respect. We are committed to working together to address any outstanding issues and to strengthen our bilateral partnership.” Anwar reiterated Malaysia’s commitment to resolving pending matters, saying that “We recognize the importance of these issues and are committed to finding mutually acceptable solutions.” The two leaders also agreed to enhance cooperation in areas such as economic growth, environmental protection, and people-to-people exchanges. They expressed confidence that the strong relationship between Singapore and Malaysia will continue to grow and prosper in the years to come.