‘3rd link does not have to be a bridge’

KUALA LUMPUR: The third link between Malaysia and Singapore need not be in the form of existing links between both nations.

Instead, it could be a rail link or a connection that is more feasible, said economist Tan Sri Ramon Navaratnam.

The former Transport Ministry secretary-general said what was crucial was for the Malaysian government to consult its Singaporean counterpart on the third link.

“First, both countries will have to agree that there is a need to look into this concern about the massive congestion at the Causeway and (the second link at) Tuas. Second, they must establish whether there is a need to build another link to address the problem.

“(And) third, establish what kind of link is needed. It does not need to be a bridge. It can be an undersea tunnel or railway link, which seems feasible as we have the system. See what is feasible, effective and could bring maximum benefit,” he told the New Straits Times.

He said both countries must work on it together.

Asked whether it seemed that only Malaysia was keen on the third bridge, he said; “It appears so. But if you ask them (Singapore), they may say yes.

“If they do not agree to it, then you cannot proceed with the idea. Maybe there are reasons why they refused.

“Nonetheless, we should explore the possibilities. The people, who are suffering every day, have the right to know why the Malaysian and Singaporean governments could not examine this matter — whether there is a need to have an additional link.”

Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Graduate School of Business principal fellow Professor Datuk Dr John Antony Xavier said a third bridge would ease congestion at the Causeway and Tuas.

He said the need for the third bridge could be demonstrated by the delays and congestion at both links, which was compounded during holiday and festive seasons.

He said the infrastructure development involved and ancillary infrastructure supporting the bridge would be good for the growth of both countries.

On Saturday, Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Osman Sapian said the state was in dire need of a new bridge connecting Singapore to ease congestion at the Causeway and Tuas links.

He said the worsening traffic situation at the two entry points into the country required a longterm solution to ensure that Malaysia’s economic development was not affected.

On March 19, Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad was quoted as saying that Malaysia and Singapore would need at least three or four bridges to ensure smooth traffic between the two countries