JB port limits: Singapore lodges 'strong protest', hopes to resolve matter amicably

Singapore stands ready to engage with Malaysia to resolve matters related to Johor Bahru port limits, amicably, in accordance with international law, says the republic’s Ministry of Transport (MOT).

In a statement issued today, MOT said it noted “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.

MOT said it was done through Malaysia’s publication of Federal Government Gazette P.U. (B) 587 “Declaration of Alteration of Port Limits for Johore Bahru Port” dated Oct 25, 2018 (the “Gazette Notification”), Port Circular No. 88/2018 dated Nov 11, 2018 (“PC 88/2018”), and Notice to Mariners No. 164/2018 dated Nov 22, 2018 (“NtM 164/2018”).

In response, the ministry said Singapore has lodged strong protest with the Malaysian government.

MOT said it has 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 ministry said the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has issued a Port Marine Circular on Nov 30, 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.

According to MOT, 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," said the Ministry.

The statement noted that 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," it said.

- Bernama