A legally binding bilateral agreement that paves the way for the implementation of the Singapore-Kuala Lumpur High-Speed Rail (HSR) project was signed by both countries on Tuesday (Dec 13).
The HSR lines in Singapore and Malaysia are to be linked by a bridge over the Straits of Johor with a height clearance of 25m above the water level, it was revealed in the agreement.
Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak witnessed the signing ceremony at the Prime Minister’s Office in Putrajaya. The agreement was signed by Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Minister for Transport Khaw Boon Wan and Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Abdul Rahman Dahlan.
Speaking at a joint press conference with Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak, Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said there is a strong political will and focus from Singapore and Malaysia to ensure the HSR project is done right and is a success.
Mr Lee added that the HSR line will transform the way the two countries interact, socialise and do business, for the better.
The HSR is a marquee project and the signing of the bilateral agreement marks a significant milestone in Singapore relations with Malaysia, he said.
“It gives both sides greater stake in keeping relations strong and positive,” Mr Lee added.
The project is slated for completion in 2026, and Mr Najib said that both sides were committed to the deadline. "It's about 10 years, but as you know, (given) the size of this project, the complexity of this project, 10 years is a relatively short period of time, which means we have to work very closely together," he said.
"We are looking forward to its implementation according to schedule and we think that we will be able to deliver it according to the timeline we've committed to, between the two sides."
Source : Channel News Asia
