MFA asserts confidence in ICJ ruling, Malaysia’s challenge time has expired
Singapore is fully prepared to defend its sovereignty over Pedra Branca and will address any legal actions initiated by Malaysia, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) in a statement issued on Friday, October 14.
This declaration follows the announcement by Malaysian Prime Minister Ismail Sabri on October 13, that Malaysia intends to pursue legal action at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) regarding the island’s sovereignty. He cited potential errors by former Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, which he claimed led to Malaysia missing the opportunity to seek a review of the 2008 ICJ decision that ruled Pedra Branca belongs to Singapore.
Despite these claims, the deadline for challenging the 2008 ruling has passed. In May 2018, Malaysia withdrew its appeal under the administration of Prime Minister Mahathir, acknowledging the finality of the ICJ’s decision. Singapore’s Foreign Minister, Vivian Balakrishnan, reaffirmed the country’s confidence in the ruling, which both nations had previously agreed to abide by.
Ismail Sabri’s announcement coincides with the political climate in Malaysia, as the country prepares for its 15th general election, which follows the dissolution of parliament on October 10. The early election is seen as a response to internal political discord within the ruling coalition.
Pedra Branca, a small granite island near the eastern entrance to the Straits of Singapore, has been a point of contention between Singapore and Malaysia for decades. While Malaysia originally believed it had sovereignty over the island, the ICJ’s 2008 ruling placed it under Singapore’s control. Malaysia’s attempts to challenge the ruling were ultimately blocked after the 10-year review period expired.
