Speaking in an exclusive interview with FMT, Menon expressed confidence that the collaboration will deepen bilateral ties and allow both nations to “grow their economies together”.

He also expects the partnership to create a ripple effect that will be felt across Southeast Asia and beyond.

“There are plenty of prospects for taking the relationship forward. But the important thing is that whatever we do and achieve is a contributing factor to Asean as well.

“What we will see is that a strong Singapore-Malaysia relationship contributes to a solid foundation for the growth of Asean,” he said.

The JS-SEZ, formalised by the two countries on Jan 6, aims to create a seamless economic zone encompassing Johor’s Iskandar region, Forest City, the Pengerang Integrated Petroleum Complex and Desaru.

The initiative will target 100 projects over the next decade and is expected to generate 20,000 skilled jobs for Malaysians and Singaporeans.

Menon said the agreement, inked between Malaysia and Singapore, was one of the highlights of the 11th Malaysia-Singapore Leaders’ Retreat held last week, and underscores the enduring stability and strength of the two countries’ relations.

“The two prime ministers get on very well. The relationship is on a very solid foundation. We want to be forward-leaning in trying to take the relationship forward.

“We really want to build on what we have achieved in the last 60 years, so I think there’s plenty of room for further cooperation,” he said.