Pulau Batu Puteh belongs to Johor govt, says ruler  

JOHOR BAHARU:  Sultan Iskandar of Johor says he will try to find ways to get back the sovereignty over Pulau Batu Puteh which the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled last month belongs to Singapore.

When opening the Johor State Legislative Assembly sitting here yesterday, the Sultan said the island belongs to the Johor government not the republic.

“Let us be reminded that I don’t forget Pulau Batu Puteh. Pulau Batu Puteh is not Singapore’s but it belongs to Johor. Doesn’t matter how long it may  take, I will find the way to get back the island which belongs to Johor,” he said.

Present at the opening of the state assembly sitting were the Tunku Mahkota of Johor Tunku Ibrahim Ismail and the Raja Muda of Johor Tunku Ismail Ibrahim.

Sultan Iskandar also reminded the people to live in harmony to ensure blessings in life.

He also expressed confidence that the state government under the leadership of Menteri Besar Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman would continue to develop.

“I am grateful for we remain safe and in peace. Congratulation to the government under the leadership of Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman which continues to receive the people’s trust.

“Therefore, we must avoid racial and religious elements, strongly uphold National Principles and Constitutional Monarchy. The assemblymen meanwhile should carry out their duties sincerely, honestly and understand the people’s wishes,” he said.

Ghani when met by reporters after the ceremony, refused to comment on the Sultan’s remarks on Pulau Batu Puteh.

“His Highness says sovereignty over Pulau Batu Puteh has been decided by the ICJ. I don’t want to comment further. We heard what he said,” he said.

On May 23, the ICJ in The Hague ruled that Singapore has sovereignty over Pulau Batu Puteh while Malaysia owns Middle Rocks, and South Ledge belongs to the state in whose territorial waters it is located.

Both countries have pledged to abide by the decision of the ICJ, the principal judicial organ of the United Nations, whose decision is final and not subject to appeal. — Bernama