SINGAPORE (ANN/THE STRAITS TIMES) – Singapore and Malaysia have pledged to address several long-standing bilateral concerns, including airspace, water, and maritime borders, while also aiming to enhance their relationship through fresh collaborations. During a joint press briefing on June 12 at Seri Perdana in Putrajaya, both Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and his Malaysian counterpart, Anwar Ibrahim, reiterated their commitment to this cause. Prime Minister Wong remarked, “Though the issues are intricate and may require time for resolution, we are dedicated to managing them in a manner that fosters the growth of our bilateral ties.
” Echoing this sentiment, Prime Minister Anwar expressed hope for a resolution before the annual leaders’ retreat at the year’s end, albeit acknowledging the ambition of such a timeline. Yet, if Singapore and Malaysia can resolve these issues, it would show the region and the world how good neighbours behave and interact, added Datuk Seri Anwar. “So I look forward to that sort of a final amicable resolution.
” PM Wong, who was on his first overseas trip since he was sworn in as prime minister in May, said his priority during the visit to Kuala Lumpur was to forge a good relationship with PM Anwar, building on the strong ties that Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong had established with Malaysia’s leader. “I think we have done so today over a lovely meal and durians for dessert,” he said. Establishing that strong rapport and trust will .