Dr M to visit Singapore, to discuss water rates

(Bernama) – Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad will visit Singapore on Nov 12, and will among others discuss the water agreement with the republic.

Deputy Foreign Minister Marzuki Yahya said the government was firm in its stand to discuss with Singapore for a review of the price of raw water supplied to the republic.

“We will continue to give our commitment. I hope with the cooperation of all parliamentary members, it gives strength to efforts to get the desired price for the Malaysian government,” he told the Dewan Rakyat today.

He was responding to Mohd Shahar Abdullah (BN-Paya Besar) on discussions pertaining to the water supply to Singapore.

Marzuki said based on the provisions in the Water Agreement 1961 and 1962, the price of raw water supplied by the country was 3 sen per 1,000 gallons and could be reviewed after 25 years.

He said Malaysia had the right to review the price of the water as provided in the law.

He said among steps taken by Malaysia was to make known clearly its stand on the matter during bilateral meetings with Singapore.

“Coordination with the relevant quarters, especially the Johor government, is in progress to resolve the issue without affecting the country’s interests,” he added.