Singapore – Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong convened today for the 12th Malaysia-Singapore Leaders’ Retreat, marking a significant milestone in bilateral relations as both nations celebrate 60 years of diplomatic ties.
The retreat, held at The Ritz-Carlton Millenia Singapore, served as a platform for the two governments to review progress on existing projects, address longstanding issues, and chart new avenues of cooperation.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, accompanied by senior ministers including Deputy Prime Minister Fadillah Yusof and Transport Minister Anthony Loke including Sarawak Premier Dr Abang Zohari, emphasised the importance of constructive engagement between the two neighbours.
Among the key outcomes was the signing of an additional agreement for the Johor Bahru–Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link, finalising arrangements for co-located immigration facilities. This development is expected to ease cross-border travel, with operations scheduled to begin in January 2027.
The leaders also announced Malaysia’s formal agreement to Singapore’s proposal to open new consulates in Sabah and Sarawak, a move aimed at strengthening sub-national engagement and providing consular services to Malaysians and Singaporeans in East Malaysia.
Two Memorandums of Understanding were signed, focusing on health cooperation and joint efforts against drug trafficking.
Prime Minister Wong highlighted that these initiatives would deepen collaboration in areas directly affecting citizens’ welfare, while also expanding exchanges in education and culture.
Addressing longstanding bilateral issues such as airspace management, water supply, and maritime boundaries, both leaders acknowledged the complexity of these matters but stressed that differences would not undermine overall relations.
“There are differences, of course, but there is no hostility,” Anwar said, underscoring that both sides are committed to resolving disputes through dialogue.
The retreat also reaffirmed the importance of regional cooperation within ASEAN, with Anwar noting that closer Malaysia–Singapore ties would contribute to broader stability and prosperity.
“As close neighbours and friends in ASEAN, I am confident that our increasingly strong diplomatic relations will benefit the people of both countries, Insya-Allah,” Anwar remarked.
With tangible progress on infrastructure, health, and security, the 12th Leaders’ Retreat demonstrated the resilience of Malaysia–Singapore relations and their shared commitment to advancing mutual interests.
