Singapore and Malaysia Better as Friends than Rivals, Says Zafrul

SINGAPORE: Malaysia’s Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Zafrul Aziz has called for deeper cooperation between Malaysia and Singapore, stressing that friendship and collaboration are vital for mutual economic growth. Speaking at the Asia Future Summit, Tengku Zafrul said it is “better to be friends than rivals,” citing the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) as proof of practical partnership.

Rivals or friends?

The JS-SEZ, agreed upon in January 2025, aims to streamline trade and investment through simplified customs, harmonised regulations, and improved connectivity, while attracting global investors to both nations. Tengku Zafrul added that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) would also benefit from integration into regional supply chains.

He further urged Asean to maintain unity and multilateralism amid global economic shifts, emphasising Malaysia’s role as Asean chair for 2025. “We are stronger together,” he said, reaffirming Asean’s importance in ensuring regional stability and sustainable growth.

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