PMs Lee and Anwar conclude retreat with agreements across multiple sectors.
Key Takeaways from the 10th Singapore-Malaysia Leaders’ Retreat
The 10th Singapore-Malaysia Leaders’ Retreat, held recently, brought Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong of Singapore and Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim of Malaysia together for a productive two-day meeting. The retreat resulted in several significant agreements aimed at strengthening ties between the two countries in diverse fields such as SME development, cross-border crime, and economic cooperation.
Here are the 10 key outcomes:
Support for SMEs
A fund was updated to assist businesses from both countries in joint pilots, particularly focusing on emerging sectors such as the green economy and digital economy. A memorandum of understanding (MOU) between Enterprise Singapore and SME Corporation Malaysia was also noted for fostering SME growth.
Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JSSEZ)
An agreement is being prepared for January 11, 2024, that will advance the development of the Special Economic Zone, facilitating better flow of goods and people across the Causeway.
Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link
Both leaders expressed confidence that the RTS Link, which will connect Singapore and Malaysia by rail, will be operational by end-2026. The service will carry 10,000 passengers per hour in each direction.
Air Traffic Services Review
The delegation arrangements for managing air traffic over Southern Peninsular Malaysia, agreed upon in 1973, will undergo a review to meet both countries’ current needs and align with ICAO’s standards.
Maritime Boundary Delimitation
A joint meeting between leaders from both nations will tackle maritime boundary delimitation issues following the International Court of Justice’s ruling on territorial waters.
Water Supply Talks
The two leaders agreed to resume discussions regarding the pricing of raw and treated water under the 1962 Johor River Water Agreement, with a focus on sustainable supply and water quality improvements.
Security and Transnational Crime Cooperation
Both countries agreed to continue collaborating in regional security and combating transnational crimes, including the illicit trafficking of narcotics and psychotropic substances.
Intellectual Property Cooperation
A historic agreement on intellectual property was signed, promoting the exchange of patent-related programs to support innovators in both nations.
Higher Education Exchange
An MOU is being developed to encourage more exchanges in higher education and technical training between Singapore’s and Malaysia’s universities and educational institutions.
Causeway Centennial Celebrations
Both nations will mark the 100th anniversary of the Causeway with joint events, showcasing performances and commemorative activities.
This retreat not only reinforced the historical relationship between Singapore and Malaysia but also laid the groundwork for further collaboration in critical sectors.
