SINGAPORE - The Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah hopes that the comprehensive and symbiotic relations between Malaysia and Singapore will continue to flourish for the benefit of both countries and the people.
Sultan Abdullah said it was important for both countries to work together, cooperate and collaborate amid the changing global geo-politics, geo-economic and geo-strategic landscape.
"Similarly, as the founding members of ASEAN, Malaysia and Singapore should continue to collaborate with one another and with the rest of ASEAN, as well as with our preferred partners to ensure Southeast Asia will be a region of peace, stability and prosperity."
His Majesty said this at a state banquet held at The Istana here today, in conjunction with his visit with Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Hajah Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah to the island republic.
The banquest was also attended by Singapore President Halimah Yacob and her husband, Mohammed Abdullah Alhabshee.
The Agong further said that Malaysia and Singapore had a close, longstanding, deep-rooted and comprehensive relationship that continued to grow from strength to strength.
Sultan Abdullah believed this is evident through the Malaysia-Singapore trade that increased to SD$128 billion in 2021 despite the disruptions and limitations caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
"I was informed that our trade might reach SD$150 billion in 2022. Our people-to-people ties are strong. Many Malaysians and Singaporeans have relatives and friends who live and study across the causeway.
"More than 300,000 Malaysians commute daily to work in Singapore and contribute to its development. Likewise, our cultural and heritage linkages are also strong," said the Agong.
Their Majesties arrived here Tuesday for a state visit, which will end on Friday.
The visit reflects the close bilateral ties between Malaysia and Singapore which were established 57 years ago. - BERNAMA