Singapore ministers call on Sultan of Johor on Hari Raya
JOHOR BAHRU : In a fast changing world, Singapore and Malaysia
share a unique relationship.
And that is something Singapore's younger leaders say they hope
will continue to strengthen for years to come.
That was the view of Minister Lim Swee Say, who together with
Education Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam visited the Sultan of
Johor to convey Hari Raya greetings.
It has become an annual tradition.
Every Hari Raya, Singapore leaders make a trip to Istana Bukit
Serene in Johor Bahru.
Making the call on Sultan Mahmood Iskandar this year were Mr Lim,
Mr Tharman and their wives.
These regular Hari Raya visits underscore the importance of the
bilateral ties between Singapore and Malaysia which have been
growing warmer in the past few years, after a series of high-level
exchange visits by the top leaders of both countries.
The leaders bantered light-heartedly, as the Sultan showed off his
collection of baby crocodiles.
Then it was off to a sumptuous two-hour lunch and to renew old
ties.
Education Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam said, "We had a very warm
conversation as usual. There is great friendship on both sides - a
lot of renewing of facts and acquaintances and happenings and
updating each other on what's happening on both sides and His
Majesty was very hospitable as usual."
Minister Lim Swee Say, Prime Minister's Office, said, "This is my
first time, and for the Sultan and Sultanah to spend this very
special day, Hari Raya, with Tharman and I...I think it reflects a
kind of special, unique relationship between Singapore and Johor,
as well as Singapore and Malaysia.
"I think we live in a fast changing world. But I hope, and both
sides hope, that this special relationship will keep strengthening
for a long time to come." - CNA/ms
