PETALING JAYA: Malaysia and Singapore discuss strengthening bilateral relations and exploring new areas of cooperation, says Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
In a statement on Saturday (Aug 9), the Deputy Prime Minister said the talks took place during his working visit to Singapore, where he met the Republic’s top leaders: Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, Deputy Prime Minister and Trade and Industry Minister Gan Kim Yong and President Tharman Shanmugaratnam.
He mentioned that in the meeting with Wong, the focus was on enhancing long-standing bilateral relations, particularly through strategic projects aimed at increasing foreign direct investment (FDI) and generating more employment opportunities in Malaysia.
Both leaders also explored new cooperation in tourism, technical and vocational education and training (TVET), and people-to-people exchanges to foster long-term understanding.
The two sides also discussed sharing best practices in regulating the gig economy, a growing sector in both countries.
Ahmad Zahid said Malaysia and Singapore are reviewing the matter from legal and policy perspectives.
“I also shared Malaysia’s initiatives to support gig workers through social protection and progressive policies, as part of efforts to build a competitive digital economy,” he said.
During discussions with Gan, both leaders concurred on the importance of fully leveraging the Asean market’s vast potential to boost bilateral trade.
Ahmad Zahid also highlighted Malaysia’s position as the region’s halal hub.
During the meeting, Gan also informed Ahmad Zahid that Singapore had sent TVET trainers to Malaysia.
The working visit concluded with a luncheon hosted by President Tharman.
Ahmad Zahid described the day’s discussions as highly productive.
“I am confident that the outcomes of this meeting will pave the way for closer strategic cooperation between Malaysia and Singapore, for the continued well-being and prosperity of our two brotherly nations.
“It is my hope that all matters discussed today will be translated into actions that bring significant benefits to the peoples of both countries in the future,” he said.
