Communications and Multimedia Minister Gobind Singh Deo hopes to forge closer ties with his Singaporean counterpart, S Iswaran in an effort to leverage developments taking place in the media sector.

"We hope that there will be more discussions and communication between the two of us so that we understand how both of us can take advantage of the media industry which has developed over the years," he said.

He pointed out that at the end of the day, both Malaysia and Singapore have a lot to gain by learning and working with each other.

Gobind told reporters on the sidelines of the RTM-Mediacorp 12th Muzika Ekstravaganza at Angkasapuri in Kuala Lumpur last night in which both he and Singapore's Communications and Information Minister Iswaran attended.

The programme featuring Malaysian and Singaporean artistes was telecast live over RTM's TV2 and Mediacorp's Suria channels.

"I'm very happy that we have this programme. I think we should make every effort to ensure that it carries on in the years to come," he said.

He noted that cultural and arts performances and events such as Muzika Eksktravaganza would enable both countries to share and enjoy their similarities and strengthen bilateral ties.

Iswaran, meanwhile, pointed out that the event was a good example of the continuing close relationship between the two broadcasting agencies as well as between Malaysia and Singapore in general.

He said from Singapore's perspective, the programme provided an opportunity for artists from both countries to work together and create new and innovative programme content besides giving viewers the opportunity to enjoy the cultural aspects that both countries have so much in common.

- Bernama