Malaysia-Singapore bond over bak kut teh

Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming and Singapore’s Minister for National Development Desmond Lee bonded over a meal at Ng Ah Sio Bak Kut Teh in Singapore.

“I also took this opportunity to invite Minister Lee to attend the ASEAN-China Ministerial Roundtable Meeting scheduled for July 3rd in Kuala Lumpur, and cordially invite him to join me in enjoying the internationally renowned Klang Bak Kut Teh,” he said, reported Sin Chew Daily.

Nga was invited to attend the Singapore Global Cities Summit today.

Nga highlighted to the media today that both sides engaged in in-depth discussions on four major areas: public housing, sustainable development, urban planning, and urban renewal.

They also had a delightful meeting over Bak Kut Teh, exchanging insights on its unique features in Malaysia and Singapore.

He also said that Malaysia designated Bak Kut Teh as a national heritage food in February this year under the National Heritage Act 2005, not only as a recognition of this delicacy but also to protect and preserve its multicultural heritage.

“This initiative not only enhances the international recognition of Malaysian cuisine but also promotes the development of the tourism industry,” Nga said.

Nga also said that Malaysia and Singapore share not only cultural similarities but also common policies, which could strengthen bilateral cooperation.

“The economic structures and geographical environments of both countries complement each other, nurturing each other’s roles and jointly addressing regional economic and local development issues,” he said.

He further stated that ASEAN countries should collaborate to address regional economic, housing, and local development challenges. Malaysia looks forward to increased cooperation with Singapore in these areas, particularly in the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JSSEZ).

“We anticipate more joint projects with Singapore, such as infrastructure development, sustainable technological innovation, and cultural tourism promotion, to further drive regional economic prosperity,” he said.

Ng said that this visit has strengthened the mutual understanding and friendship between the two countries, setting the groundwork for future collaboration.