KUALA LUMPUR (Nov 17): The Kuala Lumpur-Singapore High Speed Rail project represents Japan’s No.1 priority in terms of even more Japanese investment into Malaysia, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak.

“We welcome this,” Najib said in a blog post today on his website Najibrazak.com

The Prime Minister who is on a three day working visit to Tokyo which ends today, said the international tender process for the project is expected to take place in the last quarter of 2017.

“Malaysia and Singapore are in the process of finalising the terms of the bilateral agreement for the KL-Singapore High Speed Rail project, [and] we are expect to sign the agreement next month in Johor Bahru.

“We look forward to having Japan’s bid in the tender process,” he added.

Other countries which have expressed interest for the project include China, France and Germany.

“This iconic project has garnered global attention. I assure all interested parties that the international tender process will be undertaken in the most transparent and objective manner,” said Najib.

Besides the High Speed Rail project, Najib said he had also discussed with Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on the Trans-Pacific Partnership agreement, the South China Sea dispute and North Korea.

“Malaysia also offered to help with the development of the Halal industry in Japan.

“I am also pleased to note that Japan’s gift of two decommissioned maritime vessels to Malaysia will enhance our capabilities to protect our waters,” he said.

Najib said Malaysia will continue to work closely with Japan and other like-minded friends in securing regional peace and stability, through the United Nations Security Council.

The Prime Minister added that next year marks the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and Japan.

“Both our countries have agreed to hold suitable commemorative events to mark this historic anniversary,” said Najib. 

The Prime Minister noted that the relationship between Malaysia and Japan continues to be strong, and that his working visit to Japan reaffirmed close bilateral ties between both countries.