Malaysia has asked Singapore to take into consideration sending its professors to teach English and other disciplines, particularly in certain places inside the nation.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim brought up this subject with Singaporean colleague Lawrence Wong, who is currently in the country on an official visit.
"I am extremely pleased that Prime Minister Wong is prepared to look into this. This (request) is not something that we prepared through our officials.
"This proves that Prime Ministers can decide on something without their officials," Anwar quipped at a joint press conference with Wong yesterday.
Nevertheless, the request's specifics are missing.
Wong, 51, was in Malaysia for his first official visit since taking office as the island republic's fourth prime minister on May 15.
Anwar stated that the Johor-Singapore special economic zone and the Forest City, Johor special financial zone were among the problems that were brought up for debate, both ongoing and outstanding.
him noted that Wong and him had also decided to move more quickly to resolve the remaining issues between the two nations, such as the delineation of the maritime border, the flight information region, and the water accord (FIR).
"We discussed these issues, which I believe can and should be resolved in the interest of future relations," he said.
Anwar stated that Malaysia anticipated robust and healthy relations under Wong's leadership, which would be advantageous to both nations.
"I am really moved and pleased by how open and kind (our chats are) in our first meeting with Wong. He remarked, "I think we can be great friends."
Anwar described Malaysia's partnerships and exchanges, especially in the past year, as extraordinary and stated that both nations will gain from having each other as excellent neighbors and friends.
"I say this without any qualms that we consider Singapore as a strategic economic partner.
Yes, there are problems to be fixed, but it would be quite advantageous if we could demonstrate (our solid connection) to the entire globe as well as the local community.
"Not only can we resolve issues through practical steps, but we can also look for new avenues of cooperation," he continued.
Anwar stated that, despite the complexity of the unresolved issues between the two nations, it was crucial that the "nitty gritty" details be worked out and that the concerns be settled peacefully.
If you ask me about the timeline, I think it should have been resolved yesterday.
"It will benefit us more if it is completed quickly. Before the Leaders' Retreat at the end of the year, that would be ideal, he stated.
Source: TheStar
