“Malaysia and Singapore has excellent ties and despite global economies uncertainties, our ties still remain strong. Singapore was Malaysia’s second largest source of foreign investment and the MOU signifies Malaysia’s and Singapore’s timeless commitment to this project.
“The MOU will be superseded by a bilateral agreement expected to be signed at the end of the year. There will be a team set up which comprises MyHSR Corporation and LTA (as InfraCos) in Malaysia and Singapore respectively. Once the agreement is signed, the team will work on the preparation of tender which is expected to be issued next year,” said Najib in his speech.
According to a press release, both governments will take responsibility for developing, constructing and maintaining the civil infrastructure and stations located in their respective countries.
Both governments have also agreed that the HSR will have eight stations, with terminals in Bandar Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur) and Singapore, and six intermediate stations in Putrajaya, Seremban, Ayer Keroh, Muar, Batu Pahat and Iskandar Puteri.
All stations will be designed to integrate with the local public transport systems to ensure seamless connectivity.
The trains will run at a top speed of more than 300kph.
To facilitate swift and seamless travel, both governments also agreed to co-locate the Customs, Immigration and Quarantine (CIQ) facilities at three locations, namely Singapore, Iskandar Puteri and Kuala Lumpur, so that international-bound passengers will only need to undergo CIQ clearance by both Malaysia and Singapore authorities at the point of departure.
“This is the reflection of the future of Malaysia and Singapore – an era of growing prosperity. A new lifestyle will be enjoyed by both Malaysians and Singaporeans. Imagine 90 minutes’ travel time from both cities. You can have breakfast in KL, lunch in Singapore and dinner in KL. It goes to show the things we can achieve in the spirit of good neighbourliness and partnership,” said Najib.