S’pore Consulate in Sarawak still awaiting KL approval

SINGAPORE (Dec 1): The establishment of Singaporean Consulates in both Sabah and Sarawak is still on hold as the Singapore government awaits formal approval from Kuala Lumpur, says Singapore’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dr Vivian Balakrishnan.

The issue was raised during a fireside chat with participants of the 17th Malaysian Journalist Visit Programme (MJVP) recently with regards to the current economic relationship between Singapore and Sarawak and the follow-up to earlier talks concerning a Singapore Consulate-General in the state.

Balakrishnan affirmed the close relationship, noting the proactive stance taken by the current Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Abang Openg, to significantly expand economic ties.

“First, I would say that our relations are close, particularly under the current Premier, who is keen to grow the economic relationship on an even larger scale. We support that,” said Dr. Balakrishnan during the fireside chat.

In February this year, Dr Balakrishnan met with Abang Johari informing that Singapore is exploring the establishment of a consulate in Kuching as part of efforts to enhance bilateral collaboration with Sarawak.

The proposed consulate aims to strengthen ties and facilitate closer cooperation between Sarawak and Singapore in trade, investment, and other sectors.

Meanwhile, the Singaporean Minister also praised Sarawak’s initiative in setting up a regional office, the Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office Singapore (STATOS), in Singapore.

“I am glad he has established an office here. I think it will promote people-to-people ties, more interactions between businesses, and will also facilitate investments.

“There are certainly Singapore investors who want to invest in Sarawak. It is another vital account with great potential for the future,” he added.

“It is in that light that we have proposed to KL the establishment of Consulates in both Sabah and Sarawak, to facilitate people-to-people interaction, engagement, and the flow of investments and trade.”

When asked for a timeline on the establishment of the consulates, Dr. Balakrishnan confirmed that the ball is now in the federal government’s court.

“We will wait for approval from KL,” he stated.

The establishment of these Consulates would mark a significant step in enhancing Singapore’s direct engagement with the governments, businesses, and people of East Malaysia, further solidifying the strong bilateral ties between Singapore and the region.