ANWAR Ibrahim today hailed Singapore as “a great neighbour and friend” of Malaysia, saying no other  Asean members have “so much in common” as these two countries.

At a plenary session at the Inter-Pacific Bar Association conference in the island nation, the PKR president said although the neighbours have unresolved bilateral issues, they have both benefited   economically, socially, culturally and security-wise from the relationship.

Anwar was responding to a question on Malaysia-Singapore relations posed by moderator Francis Xavier, who is the Rajah & Tann Asia Dispute Resolution regional head.

“We are mutually dependent. It would benefit us if we worked together more effectively, based on trust, of course,” he said.

Anwar said he hopes that the two countries will remain “on the best of terms” and work towards amicably resolving any matters of contention.

“Handle with care,” he said in an apparent reference to the ongoing talks between the two countries o outstanding issues related to water supply and their maritime boundaries

Anwar also said that he hopes that both sides will explore new avenues to further enhance their relations as Malaysia undergoes “a period of transition and economic problems due to the mismanagement” in the past.

The Port Dickson MP is regarded as the prime minister-in waiting, it having been decided prior to the general election that he will succeed Dr Mahathir Mohamad in the PM’s office – Bernama, April 26, 2019. – Bernama, April 26, 2019.