KOTA KINABALU: Singapore’s decision to open a consulate here this year is set to strengthen bilateral relations between Sabah and the island republic, says Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
In welcoming the decision, he said the consulate would be of strategic importance, encompassing economic, diplomatic, investment, trade and security aspects involving Sabah and Singapore.
He is also confident that it would expand mutual cooperation, unlocking more investment and trade opportunities that directly benefit the state’s development.
"The state government welcomes the opening of the Singapore Consulate in Sabah this year. It is a positive development that will bolster the existing ties between Sabah and Singapore," he said during a courtesy call from Singapore High Commissioner to Malaysia, Vanu Gopala Menon, at his office here on Thursday (Jan 22).
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He said Sabah also welcomes Singaporean investors to explore competitive sectors here and encourages more tourists from the republic to visit the state.
Vanu Gopala said that Singapore will open consulates in both Sabah and Sarawak after receiving approval from the Malaysian government last month.
On Dec 4, Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong welcomed Malaysia's official approval for the proposed consulates, describing it as a significant step in strengthening the relationship between the two nations.
