Anwar proposes S’pore use M’sia as its rice bowl

SINGAPORE – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is looking to turn Malaysia into Singapore’s rice bowl and provide food security for the island nation.

In a brief toast to his Singaporean counterpart Lee Hsien Loong during the official lunch hosted at The Istana, Anwar said that this was an area that could benefit both nations.

“I would like to allude to the fact that our discussions (earlier) were not the normal diplomatic cliché. There are outstanding issues and bilateral relationships should be enhanced. We must try to do our utmost to enhance our relationship and work together for the benefit of both countries.

“With President Halimah Yaacob visiting (Malaysia) soon, we can further improve our bilateral relations. There are also a number of issues we need to focus on.

“On food security, this is an area we would like to solicit the support of Singapore to use Malaysia as the heartland (for food) for the benefit of Malaysia and Singapore,” said Anwar.

Lee, who as the host had toasted Anwar first, expressed his happiness that both neighbouring nations are working closely to advance their bilateral relations for the mutual benefit of the two countries.

He described his discussion with Anwar as “fruitful”, particularly on outstanding issues.

“We also 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.

“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 peoples and businesses.

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

The Tambun MP had arrived earlier today for his one-day, first official visit to Singapore.

He was accompanied by his wife Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail and a delegation of officials including Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Zambry Abdul Kadir, Transport Minister Anthony Loke, International Trade and Industries Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz, Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil, Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg, and Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi among others. – The Vibes, January 30, 2023