(From second right) Dr Vivian and Azfar at a special reception in conjunction with National Day and Malaysia Day organised by the Malaysian High Commission in Singapore.
THE Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) has been described as the embodiment of Malaysia and Singapore’s commitment to regional integration.
Malaysian High Commissioner to Singapore, Datuk Dr Azfar Mohamad Mustafar said it was poised to be a powerful growth engine, leveraging on Johor’s industrial capacity and Singapore’s expertise in technology, finance and innovation.
“This is a collective ambition for the future of both countries,” he said in his speech at a special reception by the high commission in Singapore in conjunction with National Day and Malaysia Day.
“JS-SEZ aims to be a more integrated ecosystem, with streamlined processes, enhanced connectivity and attractive incentives for businesses.”
He stressed that in the midst of a challenging global economic environment, both countries have continued to thrive in trade, business and investment.
“Trade wise, both countries rank second to each other as trading partners, bilaterally as well as intra-Asean.
“Trade volumes between the two countries continue to grow steadily.
“For 2025, trade grew 9.4% compared to the same period in 2024,” said Azfar.
“Last year total trade between both countries reached US$86.7bil (RM365.9bil), an increase of 8.9% compared to 2023.”
The positive gains were encouraging and demonstrative of the innovative and open approach to trade and business that worked for both countries, he said.
Malaysia is also one of the top destinations for Singapore’s investments and for the first half of 2025, a total of US$10bil (RM42.2bil) was recorded.
“The border crossings between Malaysia and Singapore remain one of the busiest in the world, with more than 350,000 people moving across every single day for various purposes.
“Therefore, connectivity in terms of infrastructure, policies and process is key towards facilitating the interaction of people and businesses of both countries moving forward,” said Azfar.
“This year marks six decades of Malaysia-Singapore diplomatic relations.
“Our ties are deep and enduring, built on common heritage, shared prosperity and the understanding that our futures are closely intertwined.
“Whether through expanding trade, strengthening connectivity or addressing regional challenges together, both countries have proven that partnership is key to stability and growth.”
This year is also significant for Malaysia as it is the Asean chair.
“It comes with an immense expectation to steer Asean on the path of peace, progress and prosperity.
“All these while navigating the complex challenges within and in the global world,” Azfar said, reminding Malaysians in Singapore to always abide by and respect the law.
“It is important for us to take care of our people’s welfare together and to maintain peace while in Singapore,” he added.
The event was attended by 500 people including Singapore’s foreign affairs minister Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, several Singaporean MPs and Asean dignitaries.
