Singapore PM Meets East Java Governor Khofifah to Boost

Ohana Magazine –Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong extended a warm welcome tEast Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa during her official visit to Singapore on Wednesday (Nov 12, 2025). The meeting took place as part of Khofifah’s attendance at the RISING Fellowship, a program that strengthens relations between Indonesia and Singapore. She visited Singapore at the invitation of Minister for Foreign Affairs Vivian Balakrishnan. Photos shared on social media showed both leaders smiling in matching dark suits and blue ties. Their meeting reflected more than a diplomatic gesture it highlighted how regional cooperation can bring real progress. As one of Indonesia’s most dynamic provinces, East Java is increasingly seen as a key partner in developing Southeast Asia’s shared prosperity and sustainable future.

RISING Fellowship Strengthens Bilateral Ties

The RISING (Republic of Indonesia + Singapore) Fellowship has become an important platform for dialogue and collaboration between leaders from both nations. It was first launched in 2018 by former Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and President Joko Widodo. The program focuses on building partnerships, exchanging knowledge, and encouraging innovation in governance, urban development, and education. Governor Khofifah’s participation symbolizes Indonesia’s growing commitment to regional collaboration at the local level. Through RISING, East Java can attract new investments and exchange ideas with Singapore on sustainable city planning and digital transformation. More than a forum, RISING represents a friendship rooted in learning and shared growth where regional leaders work together to turn ideas into action.

Discussions on Investment and Development

During the meeting, PM Wong and Governor Khofifah discussed several key areas of cooperation. Their talks focused on carbon credit projects, human resource development, and education partnerships. “We had a good discussion on ways to strengthen cooperation between Singapore and East Java,” Wong wrote on his official social media account. He described East Java as a province with “extraordinary growth potential” and expressed Singapore’s desire to be a reliable partner in its journey. The two leaders also explored opportunities in green energy, vocational training, and digital education. The meeting ended with optimism, reflecting both nations’ shared commitment to a sustainable and inclusive economic future.

East Java’s Expanding Investment Potential

East Java has emerged as one of Indonesia’s most attractive investment destinations. With strong industrial growth, skilled labor, and strategic ports, the province offers huge potential for collaboration. Governor Khofifah promoted East Java’s focus on renewable energy, healthcare, and smart city development during her visit. She also encouraged Singaporean investors to explore joint ventures in logistics and infrastructure. The East Java–Singapore partnership could help create new jobs and transfer knowledge across industries. Business forums held alongside the visit provided investors a closer look at local opportunities. For both sides, the discussions were not just about numbers they were about building long-term trust and realizing shared prosperity through innovation and sustainability.

Singapore’s Confidence in Regional Cooperation

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong reaffirmed Singapore’s strong relationship with Indonesia, calling it “mutually beneficial and long-standing.” He emphasized that partnerships are no longer limited to national governments but must now involve provinces like East Java, which play a major role in driving regional growth. “East Java has tremendous potential, and Singapore hopes to be a strong and trusted partner in its development,” Wong said. His statement reflects Singapore’s growing focus on regional cooperation within ASEAN. By connecting directly with local governments, Singapore aims to build more inclusive partnerships. For both countries, collaboration means not only economic gain but also shared progress for their people.

Khofifah’s Busy Diplomatic Schedule in Singapore

Governor Khofifah’s agenda in Singapore included several high-level meetings. She met Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong, had lunch with Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, and discussed educational cooperation with Minister Desmond Lee. She also met Acting Minister for Muslim Affairs Prof. Faishal Ibrahim. Each meeting focused on strengthening cooperation in education, health, and urban development. Known for her proactive leadership style, Khofifah used the visit to present East Java as a province ready to collaborate internationally. She emphasized inclusivity, innovation, and education as key pillars of her administration. Her visit not only enhanced ties with Singapore but also showcased how local leaders can shape international partnerships for real impact.

A Shared Vision for a Sustainable Future

The meeting between Lawrence Wong and Khofifah Indar Parawansa reflects a shared vision of sustainability and innovation. Both leaders believe that economic growth must go hand in hand with environmental responsibility. Discussions on carbon credit cooperation signal a step toward a greener future for both regions. For East Java, collaboration with Singapore brings opportunities to access global technology and investment networks. For Singapore, it strengthens its position as a regional leader in sustainable innovation. Their meeting in Singapore showed how cooperation built on trust and shared goals can create lasting benefits not just for two governments, but for communities striving for progress across Southeast Asia.