KUALA LUMPUR: Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong congratulated Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on his appointment as Malaysia's 10th Prime Minister.
"My warmest congratulations on your victory in the 15th General Election (GE15) and on being sworn in as Malaysia's 10th Prime Minister," said Lee in his congratulatory letter to Anwar.
"Congratulations also to Pakatan Harapan (PH) for its strong performance in the General Election," added Lee.
He said that he looked forward to meeting Anwar soon, to discuss the common issues facing the two countries and how they can further advance the bilateral relationship between the two neighbours.
"Ho Ching and I wish you and Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Ismail good health and happiness," he added.
Lee noted that Anwar's premiership comes amidst significant challenges in "our regional and global environment."
"As close neighbours and friends, Singapore and Malaysia should work together to manage these challenges and explore new opportunities for cooperation," he said.
According to Lee, Singapore and Malaysia share a longstanding substantive relationship, underpinned by their historical ties, multi-faceted cooperation, and strong people-to-people links.
Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, Lee said the two countries have been steadfast partners in supporting each other.
"The close coordination between our ministers and officials allowed us to maintain the flow of essential goods and workers, and to re-open our borders swiftly and effectively.
"We have also been close partners in ASEAN, which remains central to stability in Southeast Asia amidst rising geopolitical tensions," said Lee.
Anwar, 75, was named Malaysia's 10th prime minister by Yang Di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah after five days of political impasse over a hung Parliament as a result of GE-15 on Nov 19 where no political coalition won the simple majority of 112 seats needed to form a new government. -- Bernama
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