Throughout the pandemic, Malaysia and Singapore have been "solid, loyal" partners

[ASEAN NOW Content Team]

 

In the face of the COVID-19 problem, Malaysia and Singapore have remained solid, loyal, and dependable allies, according to Singapore's Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan (May 19).

Dr. Balakrishnan spoke to the media on the final day of a three-day business visit to Malaysia, during which he met with key Malaysian lawmakers and personalities.

"People on both sides of the causeway have had a rough time in the last two years.
"However, one significant factor that has emerged is that both Malaysia and Singapore have been solid, loyal, and dependable partners throughout the crisis," Dr Balakrishnan added.

 

"Despite the crisis, we maintained our supply networks open and the flow of basic services - food, medication, logistics, supply chains - was uninterrupted," he continued.

Dr Balakrishnan responded that Malaysia's political environment has been "complex and complicated" since the 2018 General Election when asked if it has been difficult to maintain and build bilateral ties amid political uncertainty.

Despite this, he claims that the pandemic has enhanced the bilateral connection and increased mutual trust between Singapore and Malaysia.

 

"The fact that we can work together and support each other made all the difference since we came through for each other during important occasions."

 

The minister went on to say that his lengthy friendships with people like Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob and Senior Minister Hishammuddin Hussein had enabled him communicate effectively for both countries' mutual benefit.

"For almost two decades, I've known Prime Minister Ismail (Sabri) and Defense Minister Hishammuddin.
And these friendships have endured through good and bad times...
"I'll call us buddies," Dr. Balakrishnan replied.

 

"I believe that our fundamental obligation as political leaders on both sides is to enhance the interests, security, and opportunity for our respective peoples," he continued.
But, as friends with a long history of connection and participation, we are able to speak effectively, without misunderstanding, and collaborate successfully to bring ideas of mutual interest to fruition."

Dr. Balakrishnan stated that he met with Mr. Ismail Sabri, Mr. Hishammuddin, Foreign Minister Saifuddin Abdullah, and other political leaders during his tour.
He also met with Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah, the Deputy King.

 

Dr Balakrishnan and Mr Ismail Sabri hailed the full restoration of land and air borders between Singapore and Malaysia, according to a statement issued by Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday.

Dr. Balakrishnan and Mr. Saifuddin also "took stock of current bilateral cooperation, and agreed that it had proceeded apace even amidst the epidemic and travel limitations," according to the release.