Leaders of Singapore and Malaysia commit to addressing outstanding issues through cooperative efforts during the 10th Singapore-Malaysia Leaders’ Retreat.
Singapore and Malaysia Determined to Resolve Key Bilateral Issues
SINGAPORE — During the 10th Singapore-Malaysia Leaders’ Retreat, both Prime Ministers emphasized their commitment to tackling long-standing bilateral issues. Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim discussed the importance of cooperation and trust in resolving challenges, including issues related to maritime delimitation, Pedra Branca land reclamation, water supply, and airspace management.
In a joint press conference, Prime Minister Lee highlighted the political confidence shared by both leaders to explain and implement solutions to their populations, assuring them that such actions would benefit both nations. The two leaders, having known each other for nearly 30 years, agreed that the resolution process, while challenging, would take a long-term and constructive approach to ensure the best outcomes for both countries.
Prime Minister Lee also expressed optimism that the retreat would lead to tangible progress on these issues, noting that trust-building would be essential to resolving disagreements and ensuring long-lasting cooperation between the two nations. He emphasized that all issues would be considered holistically within the broader context of their relationship.
The retreat, which began on Nov 14, is the first of its kind between the two leaders since 2022 and follows the COVID-19 pandemic hiatus. Prime Minister Anwar reiterated Malaysia’s stance on water supply and emphasized the need for joint efforts to manage the water resources effectively, including the possibility of Singapore participating in the study and management of the Johor River.
Additionally, discussions have been held on maritime boundaries and air traffic management, with both leaders seeking a comprehensive review and agreement on air traffic services, following recommendations from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
A joint statement issued after the retreat highlighted positive outcomes, including agreements to enhance tourism, support for start-ups, and cooperation on transboundary environmental issues. Both leaders remain committed to resolving outstanding issues, including water prices under the 1962 Johor River Water Agreement.
The next steps involve working towards specific principles to guide civil aviation authorities and progressing with the maritime boundary delimitation discussions, with both leaders expressing their optimism for swift, mutually beneficial resolutions.
