Overview of the Water Dispute

The water dispute between Malaysia and Singapore has been a longstanding issue, rooted in agreements made decades ago. Malaysia sells raw water to Singapore at a very low rate, which has raised concerns about economic fairness and sustainability.

Dr. M's Perspective

Former Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad believes that the situation could have been handled differently during his leadership. He argues that better negotiation and understanding of the issue could have led to a more favorable arrangement for both sides.

Historical Context

The water agreements date back more than sixty years and were established with much different economic circumstances. The current price of three sen per 1,000 gallons is seen as outdated and not reflective of the current economic realities.

The Importance of Renegotiation

Dr. M emphasizes the significance of renegotiating the terms of the agreement to ensure that both countries can benefit fairly. He highlights the potential for improved relations if the water issue is resolved.

Future Prospects

As both Malaysia and Singapore look towards enhancing their diplomatic ties, the water dispute remains a focal point that requires urgent attention. The question of how to achieve a fair and sustainable resolution continues to be central to diplomatic discussions.