Suspension of 'crooked bridge' due to Johor-Singapore water agreement clause

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak explained that the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC) has adviced the government about the legitimate status regarding the legality of any modification to the Johor Causeway under international law.

In replying to the question of the suspension of the ‘crooked bridge’ project, the Prime Minister on his latest blog post said, he has adviced the AGC that pipes within the Johor causeway are subject to the Johor-Singapore water agreement (1961,1962) which outlines that said pipes belong the Public Utilities Board (PUB) of Singapore, and any modifications of pipes must be approved by PUB.

“There is no question of whether we have enough courage to go up against Singapore. The bridge was not built because Malaysia is committed to adhering to all agreements it has signed,” said Najib.

“Any such bridge, if built in place of the Johor causeway without the express permission from Singapore’s PUB, would be in breach of property rights under international law.

He also added that the country boasts improved relations with its southern neighbours to a point that the country is engaged in projects and ventures that are a win-win proposition for both countries.

“To increase the connectivity between Malaysia and Singapore, we are now building a High Speed Rail and even mooting the idea of a friendship bridge that will not breach international law and see us build something that both countries want,” said Najib.