Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said he was looking forward to meeting his Malaysian counterpart to discuss the common issues faced by the two countries and also to strengthen their bilateral relations, Bernama reported.
Lee said Anwar’s appointment came amid significant challenges in the region as well as internationally.
“As close neighbours and friends, Singapore and Malaysia should work together to manage these challenges and explore new opportunities for cooperation,” he was quoted as saying.
Lee went on to say that the two countries were “steadfast partners” through the Covid-19 pandemic and the close coordination between its ministers allowed for borders to be re-opened and maintain the flow of essential goods and workers.
“We have also been close partners in Asean, which remains central to the stability in Southeast Asia amidst rising geopolitical tensions.”
Indonesian President Joko Widodo, or Jokowi, meanwhile, called the Pakatan Harapan chairman after he was sworn in as prime minister.
In a Facebook post, Anwar said that Jokowi was the first leader to call him.
“I stressed that Indonesia was Malaysia’s best friend and hoped that trade, business and investment ties could be strengthened. Our friendship must be strengthened,” Anwar said.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan also called Anwar just as the newly minted prime minister was about to give his first press conference.
In the conversation that lasted about 10 minutes, Anwar expressed hope that Malaysia and Turkey would strengthen bilateral ties and cooperation in many areas including trade, business, culture, education and military.
“I’m looking forward to working closely with you,” Anwar told Erdogan over the phone.
The Dalai Lama also wished Anwar “every success in meeting the challenges that lie ahead.”
Several ambassadors to Malaysia also congratulated Anwar.
US ambassador Brian McFeeters said he was looking forward to strengthening the US-Malaysia strategic partnership, while the Japanese ambassador said he hoped the new government would lead Malaysia in unity and promote relations between the two countries.
Australia’s high commissioner Justin Lee said he was looking forward to working with Anwar under its comprehensive strategic partnership.