S'pore, Malaysia deepen collaboration; continue talks on longstanding issues in 'constructive spirit'

Additional deal on RTS Link inked, nations also strengthen cooperation in drugs fight

- Ng Wei Kai Correspondent

Singapore and Malaysia will deepen collaboration and continue talks on longstanding issues, with the leaders of both countries emphasising moving forward with a “constructive spirit”, mutual respect and goodwill.

The two countries have inked an additional deal on the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link and will strengthen cooperation in their fight against the trafficking of illicit drugs.

They will also work together more on healthcare under agreements exchanged on Dec 4.

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and his Malaysian counterpart Anwar Ibrahim witnessed the exchange during the 12th Singapore-Malaysia Leaders' Retreat held at The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore hotel.

At a press conference following the exchange, both leaders laid out their positions on three outstanding bilateral issues: water, airspace and maritime boundaries.

PM Wong said officials on both sides have had several rounds of discussions and have a better understanding of each other's position, but will still need time to resolve the matters.

"All of these outstanding bilateral issues are complex issues. There are differences in views, and they are not easy to resolve, but as good neighbours, we will continue engaging in good faith," he said.

In a joint statement later on Dec 4, both prime ministers said they aspire to resolve outstanding bilateral issues through an amicable and constructive approach, in a spirit of mutual respect and in accordance with the principles of international law.

They encouraged continued discussions on the way forward regarding raw and treated water prices through an existing joint technical committee, "without prejudice to each other's respective long-declared positions on the right to review the prices" under the 1962 Water Agreement.