Kuala lumpur: Singapore will establish consulates in Sarawak and Sabah this year following approval from the Malaysian government last month, Singapore's High Commissioner to Malaysia Vanu Gopala Menon said. He stated that this approval has prompted his visit to Kuching and Kota Kinabalu to evaluate potential consulate locations, aiming to identify suitable sites for at least a temporary starting point.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Menon, speaking to reporters after a courtesy call on Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at the Satria Pertiwi Complex, mentioned that once suitable locations are pinpointed, Singapore will seek formal clearance from Malaysia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs before deploying personnel to staff the missions. He expressed optimism about getting the consulates operational by the middle of this year. This move is aimed at strengthening ties between Singapore and East Malaysia, particularly in trade, investment, and tourism.

Menon highlighted that trade between Singapore and Sarawak has been steadily increasing, underscoring the necessity for a permanent diplomatic presence to facilitate closer economic cooperation. Furthermore, he cited a growing interest in tourism among Singaporeans, especially to attractions such as the Mulu Caves, as another factor driving the establishment of the consulates. With consuls on the ground, he believes that more visitors can be attracted, promoting tourism links between the regions.

On December 4th of the previous year, Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong welcomed Malaysia's formal approval for the establishment of the consulates in Sabah and Sarawak. He described it as an important step in strengthening people-to-people ties, enabling Singapore to provide consular services to its citizens and further deepen the already robust bilateral relationship.