Singapore “concerned” about impact of Malaysia"s reclamation works

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) has said that given Singapore’s proximity to Johor, it is “naturally concerned” about any possible transboundary impact on the country from Malaysian property development projects that involve reclamation works in the Straits of Johor.

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A group of people take photographs against the backdrop of the financial district of Singapore. (AFP/Roslan Rahman)

SINGAPORE: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) has said that given Singapore’s proximity to Johor, it is “naturally concerned” about any possible transboundary impact on the country from Malaysian property development projects that involve reclamation works in the Straits of Johor.

MFA was responding to queries following reports in the Malaysian media that Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong had written to his Malaysian counterpart Najib Razak concerning the land reclamation works near the Second Link.

The MFA spokeswoman also said that there are international obligations for both Malaysia and Singapore authorities to work closely on such matters.

Malaysian reports said the project — called Forest City — involves several connected islands with a total land size of some 2,000 hectares.

The reports added that Mr Lee had asked Malaysia to provide all relevant information, including an environmental impact assessment report and an estimate of the project’s completion date.

It has also been reported that Mr Lee’s letter follows earlier diplomatic notes sent by Singapore to Malaysia’s Foreign Ministry.

MFA has confirmed that it has asked the Malaysian authorities to provide more information, so that it can undertake a study as soon as possible on the impact of the reclamation works on Singapore and the Straits.

The ministry said Malaysia has agreed to do so and Singapore hopes to receive the information soon. 

- CNA/nd

Singapore “concerned” about impact of Malaysia"s reclamation works