Foreign ministers commit to continued discussions on sovereignty over Pedra Branca, Middle Rocks and South Ledge
SINGAPORE: The Foreign Ministers of Singapore and Malaysia, Vivian Balakrishnan and Saifuddin Abdullah, issued a joint statement on November 23 following a virtual meeting of the Ninth Malaysia-Singapore Joint Technical Committee (MSJTC). The meeting focused on progressing the implementation of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling regarding Pedra Branca, Middle Rocks, and South Ledge.
The MSJTC, led by Chee Wee Kiong (Permanent Secretary of Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs) and Muhammad Shahrul Ikram Yaakob (Secretary-General of Malaysia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs), discussed key issues related to the ICJ’s decision on sovereignty over the disputed territories. The meeting led to the endorsement of the Terms of Reference (TOR) for the Sub-Committee on Maritime Boundary Delimitation, which will continue its work under the agreed framework.
Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to resolving maritime boundary issues. Acknowledging the ongoing complexities, the joint statement underscored the importance of continued dialogue. The tenth MSJTC meeting will be held in Malaysia in 2022.
Background on Pedra Branca Dispute
The sovereignty over Pedra Branca has been a point of contention since 1979 when Malaysia first published a map asserting ownership. Malaysia argued that the island had belonged to the Sultanate of Johor, while Singapore maintained that it was unclaimed land when the British took control in the 19th century. Following continuous administrative control over Pedra Branca, Singapore presented evidence of sovereignty, including a 1953 letter from a Malaysian official indicating Johor’s non-claim to the island.
The dispute was brought before the ICJ in 2003, and in 2008, the Court ruled in favour of Singapore, granting sovereignty over Pedra Branca. Malaysia subsequently sought a review of the ruling in 2017, citing new documents from the UK’s National Archives. However, the application was withdrawn by Malaysia in 2018, effectively conceding to the ICJ’s 2008 decision.
The ongoing discussions between Singapore and Malaysia reflect both nations’ dedication to resolving maritime boundary issues collaboratively and in accordance with international law.
