THE Malaysian authorities are still deciding on Singapore’s proposal to purchase two plots of land belonging to Malaysia that will be affected by the Woodlands Checkpoint (WCP) redevelopment, said Malaysian High Commissioner to Singapore Datuk Dr Azfar Mohamad Mustafar.
Azfar added that it is logical for Singapore to buy the land, but the point is whether Malaysia wants to sell or swap it which both countries have done before.“Singapore has written to Malaysia (for the purchase of the land). The relevant authority in Malaysia is deliberating and looking into it.“So far, we have not received any feedback from the relevant authority,” stated Azfar who was met by Malaysian journalists yesterday (Feb 17).According to him, all government land abroad is registered under the Federal Lands Commissioner and Singapore expressed its intention last year to buy the freehold lands—about 2.3 acres (0.93ha) in total but it is for the Federal government to decide on the land swap that he proposed.The redeveloped WCP will be gradually operationalised starting in 2028. ICA conducted thorough feasibility and technical studies to determine land requirements.Acquisition and reclamation are necessary for meeting these needs. Azfar confirmed Malaysia’s ownership of land in Singapore, including an acre in Holland Village, excluding Johor-owned land. – Feb 18, 2024
