JOHOR BARU: Tunku Mahkota Johor Tunku Ismail Ibni Sultan Ibrahim embarked on a three-day visit to Singapore, during which he visited the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) commando headquarters. This visit, accompanied by Singapore Senior Minister of State for Defence Zaqy Mohamad, highlights the strong military ties between the two nations. The SAF commando headquarters, located at Pasir Ris, hosted Tunku Ismail, who is also the commanding officer of the Johor Military Forces (JMF), on Wednesday, July 12.
During the visit, Tunku Ismail experienced a close quarters battle demonstration and had the opportunity to showcase his shooting skills during a military shooting training routine. The tour also included an airborne demonstration and a camp tour in a SAF combat jeep. These activities provided valuable insights and strengthened the bond between the two military forces.
Earlier in his visit, on Tuesday, July 11, Tunku Ismail held a meeting with Singapore Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong to discuss matters of mutual interest. Notably, the discussion revolved around the proposed Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone and the potential for enhancing trade and investment ties between Singapore and Johor. As a strategic economic partner, Singapore offers great growth opportunities for the state.
Expressing his optimism for future developments, Tunku Ismail emphasized the importance of bilateral cooperation in a Facebook post. He highlighted the positive outcomes that could emerge from the proposed Special Economic Zone and the mutual benefits it could bring. This visit serves as a platform for further dialogue and strategic planning to ensure the prosperity and economic growth of both regions.
In addition to his meetings and discussions, Tunku Ismail participated in various cultural and educational activities during his official visit. He attended a hi-tea at the prestigious Shangri-La Hotel, where he witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Johor Football Association and Singapore Football Association. This significant partnership aims to foster collaboration in football development, which includes the establishment of an annual football tournament between Johor Selection and Singapore Selection, commencing in 2024.
Among the educational engagements, Tunku Ismail, accompanied by his wife Che’ Puan Besar Khaleeda Bustamam, visited the Kuo Chuan Presbyterian Secondary School. Singapore Education Minister Gan Siow Huang gave them a comprehensive briefing on the Singapore education system. The visit further emphasized the importance of educational collaboration between the two nations.
The unique experiences and engagements during Tunku Ismail’s visit to Singapore have solidified the ties between Johor and Singapore. The exchange of ideas and shared initiatives pave the way for a promising future of economic growth, cultural collaboration, and mutual development.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
