SM Lee emphasizes the need for strategic management of sensitive issues, underscoring the “precious progress” achieved in Malaysia-Singapore relations during his first official visit after stepping down as Prime Minister.
KUALA LUMPUR: Singapore Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong has called for a strategic and sensitive approach in managing Malaysia-Singapore relations to preserve and build upon the “hard-won and precious” progress achieved between the two nations.
Speaking to business leaders at the Kuala Lumpur Business Club during his first official overseas visit since stepping down as Prime Minister, SM Lee highlighted the importance of maintaining a big-picture perspective while addressing complex bilateral issues.
“Leaders and governments on both sides must manage issues closely and sensitively, keeping in mind the broader relationship,” he said. He urged both nations to stay vigilant to potential challenges while leveraging opportunities for mutual gain.
Key Bilateral Initiatives
SM Lee cited key examples of progress in bilateral relations, including:
Johor-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link: Set for completion by 2026, this project aims to ease Causeway congestion with a capacity of 10,000 passengers per hour.
Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ): Expected to generate high-quality jobs and incentives, with an agreement anticipated later this year.
Despite these milestones, SM Lee acknowledged ongoing sensitive issues, such as maritime boundary delimitation, airspace management, and water supply agreements, requiring careful negotiation.
“These issues cannot be solved over a casual discussion or even a feast of durians,” he remarked. Instead, they demand sustained effort, understanding of domestic sentiments, and a focus on broader cooperation.
Cultural Nuances and Rivalries
Highlighting the cultural complexities in the bilateral relationship, SM Lee noted that differences in societal structures and historical rivalries could occasionally cause misunderstandings.
“Neighbourly rivalries over football, food, or even songs like Rasa Sayang add extra zing to our relationship,” he said. However, he cautioned that such passions should not escalate to harm the broader partnership.
A Stable Transition of Leadership
SM Lee expressed confidence in the continuation of positive bilateral relations under Singapore’s new Prime Minister Lawrence Wong.
“I have every confidence that PM Wong will work closely with PM Anwar to take our partnership forward,” he stated. As Senior Minister, SM Lee pledged to play a supporting role in strengthening ties further.
ASEAN Collaboration and Global Challenges
In the face of global uncertainties, such as great power contestations and regional security issues, SM Lee underscored the need for Malaysia and Singapore to collaborate closely within ASEAN.
“Malaysia can count on Singapore’s fullest support during its ASEAN chairmanship next year,” he pledged, emphasizing the importance of regional stability and integration amidst deglobalization trends.
As both nations navigate complex challenges, SM Lee’s visit reaffirmed the commitment to preserving the strong foundation of their relationship while exploring new opportunities for collaboration.
