Proposal involves two unused plots of land crucial for the redevelopment project to improve the immigration experience for Causeway travellers.
SINGAPORE: Singapore is currently awaiting Malaysia’s decision regarding its proposal to purchase two plots of land that are critical to the redevelopment of the Woodlands Checkpoint.
The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) confirmed on Thursday (Feb 22) that the Federal Lands Commissioner of Malaysia owns the two “small plots” located near the Woodlands Checkpoint. These plots are currently unused but are situated in the middle of the area that will be part of the planned redevelopment of the checkpoint.
According to ICA, without acquiring these plots, the full potential of the redevelopment cannot be realized. The aim is to enhance the immigration clearance process for travellers using the Causeway, which connects Singapore and Malaysia.
Singapore first reached out to Malaysia with a proposal to purchase the land in May 2022, and again in November 2023. The proposal was also discussed during the Joint Ministerial Committee for Iskandar Malaysia meeting in July 2023 and the 10th Singapore-Malaysia Leaders’ Retreat in October 2023, where both sides committed to improving the traffic flow at the Causeway crossing.
ICA emphasized that they are awaiting Malaysia’s reply on the matter. On February 18, Malaysian news agency Bernama reported that Malaysian authorities are still considering whether to approve the sale of the land or opt for a land swap, similar to the agreement made in 2010.
Malaysian High Commissioner to Singapore, Azfar Mohamad Mustafar, acknowledged the logical nature of Singapore’s request but mentioned that the decision is still under deliberation by the relevant authorities. He confirmed that all government land in Malaysia is registered under the Federal Lands Commissioner’s office.
