Singapore – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has safely arrived in Singapore to attend the 12th Malaysia–Singapore Leaders’ Retreat, a key annual forum for strengthening bilateral ties between the two neighbours.
The aircraft carrying Anwar touched down at Changi International Airport at 10.39am, where he was received by Singapore’s Foreign Minister Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, Singapore’s High Commissioner to Malaysia Vanu Gopala Menon, and Malaysia’s High Commissioner to Singapore Datuk Dr Azfar Mohamad Mustafar.
Anwar is accompanied by a high-level delegation including Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, Transport Minister Anthony Loke, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, and Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan.
In a Facebook post, Anwar confirmed his safe arrival and described the retreat as “an important platform for the leaders of both countries to enhance cooperation in various aspects, especially matters of mutual interest.” He added that as close neighbours and ASEAN partners, Malaysia and Singapore’s increasingly strong diplomatic relations would benefit citizens on both sides.
The retreat, hosted by Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, will focus on advancing cooperation in several areas. Key agenda items include:
- Johor Bahru–Singapore RTS Link: Finalising arrangements for co-located immigration facilities, with operations expected to begin in January 2027.
- New consulates in Sabah and Sarawak: Malaysia has agreed to Singapore’s proposal to expand diplomatic presence in East Malaysia.
- Health and anti-drug cooperation: Two Memorandums of Understanding will be signed to strengthen collaboration in public health and combat illicit drugs.
- Airspace, water and maritime issues: Both sides will continue discussions in a “constructive spirit” despite longstanding differences.
Observers note that the retreat comes at a symbolic moment, as Malaysia and Singapore mark 60 years of diplomatic relations. The meeting is expected to reaffirm commitments to regional stability and prosperity, while also addressing practical issues that affect daily life for citizens crossing the Causeway.
Anwar emphasised that while differences remain, they will not undermine the overall relationship. “There are differences, of course, but there is no hostility,” he said, signalling a pragmatic approach to resolving disputes through dialogue.
The 12th Leaders’ Retreat is set to conclude with the signing of agreements and a joint statement outlining priorities for the year ahead.
