Anwar Ibrahim to Attend Singapore-Malaysia Leaders’ Retreat on Dec 4

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is set to visit Singapore on December 4, 2023, for the 12th Singapore-Malaysia Leaders’ Retreat. This significant gathering, hosted by Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, serves as a crucial platform for both leaders to evaluate and enhance bilateral cooperation.

The retreat this year is particularly noteworthy as it coincides with the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Malaysia and Singapore. According to Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the leaders will discuss ongoing collaborations and explore new initiatives aimed at strengthening the relationship between their nations.

Key Discussions and Agreements

During the retreat, Mr. Wong will host a lunch for Mr. Anwar before delegations from both countries convene for discussions. Both leaders also hold the position of finance ministers, which is expected to enhance the focus on economic matters. A highlight of the meeting will be the exchange of memorandums of understanding in critical areas such as health cooperation and drug prevention efforts. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that these agreements aim to “broaden bilateral cooperation and increase the exchanges between both sides.”

Accompanying Prime Minister Anwar will be a high-profile delegation, including Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation Fadillah Yusof, Sarawak Premier Abang Johari, and Foreign Affairs Minister Mohamad Hasan. The Singaporean delegation will feature prominent figures such as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong and Minister for Home Affairs K Shanmugam.

The previous leaders’ retreat, held in Putrajaya in January 2023, marked the first meeting between the two prime ministers since they assumed office. During that meeting, they outlined an “indicative timeline” to finalize the precise location of maritime boundaries in the Johor Strait. They also announced Singapore’s plans to establish consulates in Sabah and Sarawak, which are expected to deepen economic and cultural ties with East Malaysia.

Security Measures and Logistics

As security preparations for the retreat unfold, police have announced that thorough checks will be conducted in the vicinity of The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore hotel. Members of the public are advised to adhere strictly to police instructions, with non-compliance resulting in legal action.

To facilitate the retreat, authorities will close a section of Temasek Avenue and multiple lanes along Raffles Boulevard and Raffles Avenue from 22:00 on December 3 until 23:59 on December 4. Additionally, the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore will implement a Temporary Restricted Area over the retreat venue during the hours of 09:00 to 17:30 on December 4, prohibiting aerial activities, including the use of drones.

This upcoming retreat presents an opportunity for both leaders to reaffirm their commitment to cooperation, ensuring that the longstanding relationship between Malaysia and Singapore continues to thrive as they navigate contemporary challenges and opportunities.