PM Lee congratulates Malaysia's new PM Anwar Ibrahim

"My warmest congratulations on your victory at the 15th General Election and on being sworn in as Malaysia's 10th Prime Minister," said Lee in his congratulatory letter to Anwar.

The text of the letter appended to the media here.

"Congratulations also to Pakatan Harapan (PH) for its strong performance at the General Election," added Lee.

Lee said that he looked forward to meeting Anwar soon, "to discuss the common issues facing the two countries and how we can further advance our bilateral relationship."

"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 "our 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 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 the prime minister.