Written Answer · 2022-11-09 · Parliament 14
Impact of Malaysia's Intended Legal Action at ICJ on Singapore's Development Plans In and Around Pedra Branca
The question asked whether Malaysia's intended legal action at the ICJ would affect Singapore's reclamation works around Pedra Branca. The Foreign Minister replied that the 2008 ICJ judgment is final, the time limit has passed, and Singapore has not received specific case details from Malaysia. Singapore stands ready to handle any legal action; all development is law-compliant. The core debate: sovereignty and the time limits of legal procedure.
Key Points
- • 2008 judgment is final
- • Time limit for action has passed
- • Development is law-compliant
Firmly upholds sovereignty over Pedra Branca.
Focuses on the impact of legal action.
Uphold international law and sovereignty.
"Singapore stands ready to deal with whatever legal action Malaysia may pursue."
Participants (2)
Original Text (English)
SPRS Hansard · Fetched: 2026-05-02
3 Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs (a) whether Malaysia's intention to continue legal action at the International Court of Justice in the case concerning Singapore's sovereignty over Pedra Branca, Middle Rocks and South Ledge impacts Singapore's existing and planned development and land reclamation works in and around Pedra Branca; and (b) if so, how.
Dr Vivian Balakrishnan : After the International Court of Justice's (ICJ’s) judgment in 2008 awarding sovereignty over Pedra Branca to Singapore, both Singapore and Malaysia publicly announced that they will accept and abide by the Court’s decision, which is final. Under the Statute of the ICJ, an application for revision cannot be made after the expiry of 10 years from the date of the 2008 judgment, that is, May 2018. To date, we have not received any details from Malaysia regarding their intention to continue legal action at the ICJ.
Nevertheless, Singapore stands ready to deal with whatever legal action Malaysia may pursue, so as to robustly defend our sovereignty over Pedra Branca. The development and land reclamation works at Pedra Branca are carried out within Singapore Territorial Waters and in accordance with international law.