(Update) SINGAPORE KEEN ON THIRD BRIDGE - M'SIAN PM

PUTRAJAYA, June 11 (Bernama) -- Singapore is quite keen on the construction
of a third bridge linking the republic to Malaysia, Prime Minister Najib Razak
said Thursday.

"The concept of the third bridge on the eastern side of Johor is something
which we will pursue, and Singapore is quite keen on having the third bridge.

"When we have a third bridge, we can develop the whole of the eastern side
(of Johor) up to Mersing and onwards to Desaru.

"Singapore did say that it (the area) has the potential to be another Nusa
Jaya like in Bali (Indonesia)," he said in his opening address at the 2010
Budget consultation meeting at the Finance Ministry, here.

Speaking at a news conference later, Najib said Singapore's interest in the
bridge was conveyed by its Minister Mentor, Lee Kuan Yew, who met him several
days ago.

"He showed interest to work with Malaysia to build the third bridge. The
bridge can develop Johor and districts like Mersing, Desaru and so forth in
Kuantan in Pahang.

"I have directed the relevant parties to provide a feasibility study and
consultant for the project. It is related to the development of the Iskandar
corridor," he said.

However, the date to start the project had yet to be decided.

"We cannot say when the project will be implemented because we have to look
at the finding of the feasibility study and the costs. Malaysia and Singapore
will pay for the cost of the third bridge," he added.

Speaking on the latest round of violence in Thailand, Najib said Malaysia
would continue to provide assistance to the Thais there, especially in terms of
education.

"The education programmes will be continued, with the development of human
capital being given priority. This is very much needed," he said.

He said that on the whole, the violence in southern Thailand had dropped
following the conciliatory measures taken by the new government in Thailand
which gave emphasis to the socio-economy of the people.

Najib was also asked to comment on a questionaire posted on the blog of MCA
president Ong Tee Keat, where respondents were asked whether the party should
leave the Barisan Nasional (BN).

"As far as I am concerned, the MCA has no intention of leaving the BN. The
posting is no more than an academic exercise," he said.
-- BERNAMA


-- BERNAMA