Statement by Minister Khaw Boon Wan on Kuala Lumpur-Singapore High-Speed Rail

1.     Following media reports that Malaysia has decided to terminate the HSR, Singapore has requested the Malaysian Government through diplomatic channels to clarify Malaysia’s position on the Project. We have informed the Malaysian Government that Singapore is continuing to incur costs on this Project as it awaits Malaysia’s clarification, and that in the event Malaysia terminates the Project, Singapore will study the implications and exercise our rights (including any right to compensation for expenses incurred) in accordance with the terms of the HSR Bilateral Agreement.

2.     When Malaysia proposed the HSR Project to Singapore in 2013, Singapore agreed because we were convinced of the benefits of the Project to Singapore. We still believe that a high speed rail link between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur would be in our mutual interest, economically as well as in terms of the friendship and mutual understanding of our two peoples.

3.     Singapore continues to support the HSR Project and to fulfil all its obligations under the Agreement. However, it is only tenable to continue the Project if Malaysia likewise supports it, and is willing to fulfil its end of the Agreement. Singapore looks forward to being informed of Malaysia’s position on the matter.