SINGAPORE: Head of State, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, and his wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, paid a courtesy call on the President of Singapore, Tharman Shanmugaratnam, at the Istana on Friday.
The Governor was accompanied by the Deputy Minister for Education, Innovation, and Talent Development, Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee, and his wife, Datin Dr Haniza Zainal Abidin, as well as the High Commissioner of Malaysia to Singapore, Datuk Indera Dr Azfar Mohamad Mustafar.
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Dr Annuar said the nearly one-hour discussion focused on strengthening bilateral relations between Sarawak and Singapore, particularly in efforts to support Sarawak’s development.
He said the conversation touched on Sarawak’s growing potential in sectors such as energy and tourism, with both sides exploring avenues to further enhance cooperation.
Bilateral ties between Sarawak and Singapore have long been established, especially in the areas of education, innovation, and talent development.
He also highlighted that Sarawak has benefited greatly from Singapore’s expertise, noting that the Premier of Sarawak and government officials frequently undertake official and working visits to the republic to study its systems.
He emphasised the close collaboration between MEITD and Singapore in developing the upcoming science centre in Kuching, in which Singaporean experts were previously appointed as main consultants to ensure the facility meets international standards.
The cooperation includes STEM curriculum design, development of interactive learning materials, and training for educators, particularly in Mathematics, English, and science education.
“MEITD collaborates extensively with Singapore on Mathematics and English. For the science centre in Kuching, we appointed Singapore as the consultant because of their vast experience in STEM education,” he said.
The courtesy call reaffirmed the commitment of both Sarawak and Singapore to continue fostering strong and meaningful partnerships in key sectors.
