‘There are differences, but there’s no hostility’: PM Anwar and PM Wong on being neighbours

Key Concepts:

• Constructive Engagement
• Mutual Respect
• International Law
• Durable and Mutually Beneficial Outcomes
• Airspace Management (as Air Management Services)
• Water as a Non-Contentious Issue
• Price Mechanism for Water
• Infrastructure Investment (Water Capacity, Volume, Pollution Mitigation)

Summary:

The discussion highlights the complexity of long-standing issues, emphasizing the necessity of continuous, constructive engagement characterized by mutual respect and a genuine effort to understand each other's positions. The overarching goal is to resolve these issues in accordance with international law, aiming for durable and mutually beneficial outcomes. While acknowledging the difficulty, the speaker expresses optimism about continued progress.

Airspace Management:

A significant point of progress is in the area of airspace management. It is recognized that this is not a matter of sovereignty but rather about providing air management services for both countries. The approach taken is to meet the current and future needs of respective airports, fostering a positive collaboration between close neighbors. Despite existing differences, there is no hostility, and neither Singapore nor Malaysia takes actions to obstruct the other. The focus is on facilitating processes and ensuring clarity to prevent future issues. The current efforts in this direction are commended.

Water Issues:

Water is presented as no longer a contentious issue, particularly from Malaysia's perspective concerning Johor. While Singapore receives treated water originating from Johor, Johor itself has substantial requirements. Discussions regarding past price mechanisms for water are deemed complex due to their potential negative impact on consumers in Johor. Consequently, this aspect is not being deliberated at length.

Instead, the focus has shifted to Singapore's proposal for discussions on potential investments in infrastructure. These investments would aim to enhance water capacity and volume, as well as address issues related to pollution. The objective is to ensure adequate quality levels and capacity.