Sarawak welcomes Singapore’s plan to open consulate in Kuching

KUCHING (Dec 3): Sarawak has welcomed Singapore’s plan to open a consulate in Kuching, calling it a positive step to strengthen long-standing economic and bilateral ties.

According to a Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas) report, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said Sarawak has enjoyed robust trade links with Singapore for many years, making the proposal timely and beneficial.

“Singapore’s relationship with Malaysia is very close, and Sarawak also has extensive trade links with Singapore. So I welcome this intention,” he said during a joint press conference with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in Singapore today.

Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong had earlier confirmed his government’s plan to establish the consulate in Kuching during the 12th Malaysia-Singapore Annual Leaders’ Retreat.

Abang Johari noted that Sarawak already operates the Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office Singapore (Statos), and the new consulate would further enhance bilateral cooperation.

Prime Minister Anwar agreed, adding that Singapore’s interest in setting up a similar office in Sabah would also deepen ties between the two countries.