Ministry of Transport Media Statement on Johor Bahru Port Limits, 4 December 2018

1. We note with grave concern that Malaysia has recently purported to extend the Johor Bahru port limits in a manner which encroaches into Singapore Territorial Waters (“STW”) off Tuas, through its publication of Federal Government Gazette P.U. (B) 587 “Declaration of Alteration of Port Limits for Johore Bahru Port” dated 25 October 2018 (the “Gazette Notification”), Port Circular No. 88/2018 dated 11 November 2018 (“PC 88/2018”), and Notice to Mariners No. 164/2018 dated 22 November 2018 (“NtM 164/2018”). In response, Singapore has lodged strong protest with the Malaysian Government. We have also requested that Malaysia amend the Gazette Notification, PC 88/2018 and NtM 164/2018 to reflect the sovereignty of Singapore over the waters in question, and that Malaysia refrain from taking any further unilateral action. The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has issued a Port Marine Circular on 30 November 2018 instructing ship masters and owners of vessels to disregard Malaysia’s Gazette Notification, PC 88/2018 and NtM 164/2018, which impinge on Singapore’s sovereignty.

2. Over the past two weeks, vessels from the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency and Marine Department Malaysia have also repeatedly intruded into STW off Tuas. Singapore has protested the unauthorised movements of, and purported assertions of sovereignty by these vessels, which are inconsistent with international law. The Republic of Singapore Navy and the Police Coast Guard are safeguarding the sovereignty of STW and enforcing the security of these waters on a 24/7 basis. Singapore will not hesitate to take firm action against intrusions and unauthorised activities in our waters.

3. Malaysia’s purported extension of the Johor Bahru port limits and the repeated intrusions by Malaysian Government Vessels into STW are a serious violation of Singapore’s sovereignty and international law. These actions are unconducive to good bilateral relations, cause confusion for the international shipping community, and lead to increased navigational and safety risks for all parties.

4. Singapore stands ready to engage with Malaysia to resolve these matters amicably, in accordance with international law.