THE MAHATHIR FACTOR IN MALAYSIA-SINGAPORE RELATIONS

Abstract

Malaysia-Singapore relations has never been plain sailing since Singapore became an independent and sovereign state after she was told to leave Malaysia on 9 August 1965 This is because a number of factors exist that influence relations between these two countries. These include the ethno-cultural, economic and strategic factors which tend to be inextricably intertwined. Yet, leaders of both countries see the need to see to it that the problem that frequently arise in this particular relationship are contained before they are seriously (if not irreparably), ruptured. As such, dealing with the problems that crop up in this relationship usually requires political dexterity and skill at the leadership level to balance off these competing interests in the formulation of foreign policies affecting these two countries, especially in the Malaysian case. In the case of this study, the focus will be on the leadership factor, especially that of Malaysian Prime Minster Datuk Seri Dr Mahathir bin Mohamad in this bilateral relationship. Hence, this study will look at the impact of Mahathir on this relationship and see if he is a major factor in determining bilateral relations between both countries since he took office more than eleven years ago or if there are also other factors that he had to consider in conducting relations with Singapore. This study is divided into four chapters. The first chapter is an introductory chapter. It will provide some form of theoretical background to the study and will also attempt to give a framework for analysis. Chapter Two will study Mahathir's views towards Singapore towards certain issues and see if there are discernible trends in these views. Chapter Three is a case study of one of Mahathir's foreign policy moves, i.e., his decision to allow Singapore to deal directly with the individual Malaysian states. In this instance, Mahathir's impact on Johor-Singapore relations will be examined. Finally, Chapter Four which is also the concluding chapter, will attempt to summarize the main points of this study on the Malaysian leadership factor in this particular bilateral relationship.