Anwar sees food security as new area to explore with Singapore

 

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim sees an opportunity to explore cooperating with Singapore on food security for the benefit of both countries.

Anwar, who is on a one-day official visit to the island state, said this could be explored amid outstanding issues that both Malaysia and Singapore needed to further focus on.

“(For) this area (food security), we will solicit support for Singapore to use Malaysia as the heartland to produce for the benefit of both countries,” Anwar said in his toast speech at the official lunch hosted by his Singapore counterpart Lee Hsien Loong today.

“My position in this administration is very new but I think our position and my cabinet team is very clear… not only do we want to continue relations but we want both Singaporeans and Malaysians to understand we are two great countries and two great neighbours that we can do so much more for the benefit of our people,” he added.

Therefore, Anwar said it was up to Singaporean leaders to proceed and move forward not only on trade, investment and cyber security but also resolving all the outstanding issues.

Both leaders earlier today witnessed the signing of three memoranda of understanding which will promote cooperation in new and emerging areas, specifically on digital and green economies, and cyber security.

Lee, in his speech, said he and Anwar had a fruitful discussion earlier today, including how both countries could make progress on outstanding bilateral issues.

“As close friends and neighbours, the destinies of Singapore and Malaysia are intertwined. When we work constructively together, we produce win-win outcomes with tangible benefits for our people and businesses.

“I am confident that with Anwar’s support, Singapore-Malaysia relations can reach greater heights,” added Lee.

Earlier, Anwar held a four-eyed meeting with Lee before calling on Singapore President Halimah Yacob.

“Halimah is visiting Malaysia soon. It is a clear signal that the relation is vibrant,” said Anwar.

- Bernama