Sabah Hails Singapore’s Consulate Plan

23 January 2026

KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah State Government has welcomed Singapore’s decision to open a consulate in Kota Kinabalu this year, describing the move as a significant step towards further strengthening bilateral relations between the state and the republic.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor said the establishment of the consulate is strategically important, encompassing economic, diplomatic, investment, trade and security dimensions, particularly in the context of Sabah–Singapore relations.

He expressed confidence that Singapore’s diplomatic presence in Sabah would deepen mutual cooperation and unlock greater investment and trade opportunities, bringing direct benefits to the state’s development.

“The State Government welcomes the opening of the Singapore Consulate in Sabah this year. It is a positive development that will further bolster the existing ties between Sabah and Singapore,” he said.

Hajiji made the remarks during a courtesy call by the Singapore High Commissioner to Malaysia, His Excellency Vanu Gopala Menon, at his office in Menara Kinabalu on Thursday.

He added that the State Government also encourages Singaporean investors to explore Sabah’s competitive sectors and looks forward to welcoming more tourists from the republic to the state.

Meanwhile, Vanu Gopala Menon said Singapore will open consulates in both Sabah and Sarawak following approval from the Malaysian Government last month.

On December 4, Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong welcomed Malaysia’s official approval for the proposed consulates in Sabah and Sarawak, describing it as a significant milestone in strengthening relations between the two countries.