RESPONSE TO CLAIMS IN MALAYSIAN MEDIA ARTICLES DATED 23 - 24 JULY 2015 THAT SINGAPORE REFUSED TO ALLOW CLOUD SEEDING IN JOHOR

1        We refer to claims in Malaysian media articles dated 23 – 24 July 2015 that Singapore refused to allow cloud seeding in Johor.

2        We are surprised by Johor State Exco member Datuk Ir. Haji Hasni bin Haji Mohammad’s claims that Singapore has refused to allow cloud-seeding operations over the Sungai Lebam and Layang dams.  Such claims, including his assertion that this is because such activities are deemed to encroach into Singapore’s territory, are baseless.  On the contrary, the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) has always coordinated closely with Malaysia’s Department of Civil Aviation (DCA) to facilitate various flight activities.  However, Singapore has not been approached recently on cloud-seeding operations, whether by DCA or any other Malaysian agencies.  If Datuk Hasni has information indicating otherwise, he should share it with Singapore so that we can look into the matter. 

3        Singapore fully supports cloud-seeding efforts in Johor, especially during this dry spell, and has previously offered to assist in such efforts to fight forest fires.  Singapore’s water agency PUB also cooperates closely with its Malaysian and Johor counterparts.  Both sides have also been working together on projects such as the Johor River Barrage to increase water resources in Johor.

4        We have asked the Malaysian media to publish this reply in full to keep their readers informed.  Thank you.

Singapore Consulate-General in Johor Bahru