KUALA LUMPUR (Dec 10): Malaysia has reiterated the importance of strong bilateral relations with Singapore, and hopes that talks between the two nations can start quickly.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it today called the Singaporean High Commissioner to discuss the latest development arising from the Declaration of Alteration of Port Limits for Johore Bahru Port published on Oct 25 and the Singapore Port Marine Circular No 9 of 2018 dated Dec 6.

“During the discussion, the Ministry welcomed Singapore’s continued emphasis on the importance of dialogue, and its willingness to engage with Malaysia in resolving matters amicably, along with its consideration of Malaysia’s proposed agenda for the bilateral discussion.

"Malaysia is also agreeable to Singapore’s counter-proposed dates in January 2019," Wisma Putra said in a statement.

The Ministry noted Singapore’s rejection of Malaysia’s proposal for both countries to mutually cease and desist sending assets into the disputed area effective Dec 8 with a view of promoting de-escalation of tensions on the ground, pending discussions on outstanding maritime boundary issues.

Singapore had also called upon Malaysia to return to the status quo prior to Oct 25 by immediately withdrawing all Malaysian Government vessels in the area.

Wisma Putra said both countries acknowledge that any measures taken would be without prejudice to their own claims.

“While the Government of Malaysia is unable to accede to Singapore’s counter-proposal, Malaysia will take all effective measures to de-escalate the situation on the ground, reaffirming its position to handle the situation in a calm and peaceful manner.

“In the meantime, Malaysia reiterates the importance of strong bilateral relations between the two countries, and hope that discussions will commence expeditiously,” the Ministry said.