The ongoing maritime dispute with Malaysia will not affect the viability of the future Tuas Megaport. Giving an update during the Committee of Supply debate, Acting Minister for Transport Dr Vivian Balakrishnan said: “Development works are proceeding as planned, and there will be no impact to access for ships calling at the terminal in the future.”

Dr Balakrishnan reiterated that Malaysia’s new boundary line extends into Singapore’s territorial waters and goes beyond what Malaysia has been claiming as its own waters in a 1979 map. Singapore has consistently rejected Malaysia’s claims in the 1979 map. He added that security agencies will continue to remain vigilant and safeguard the sovereignty and security of Singapore’s waters.

On the topic of airspace issues, Dr Balakrishnan said Singapore takes its air traffic management responsibilities seriously and will continue to enhance its capabilities to maintain the highest standards of safety and efficiency.

He noted that both Malaysia and Indonesia have asked for a return of their airspace, which is currently managed by Singapore air traffic controllers. Dr Balakrishnan stressed that any changes to air navigation arrangements must be fundamentally based on technical and operational considerations and be in accordance to the requirements set out by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

As for Seletar Airport, Dr Balakrishnan said both countries have agreed to extend the mutual suspension of the instrument landing system (ILS) procedures and the restricted area over Pasir Gudang until 31 March 2019. He also said that both Transport Ministers are closely monitoring the progress of the discussions.

Amid the negotiations, Dr Balakrishnan said Singapore will continue to invest in technology so that the country remains as a reliable provider of air traffic services.

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