LETTER | Sometimes I am just amazed by the new government and its so-called new resolve. Despite its pragmatism, the issues being considered are so myopic and even stupid. I am referring to the “crooked bridge” being considered right now.

Both Singapore and Malaysia have repeatedly claimed to be good neighbours. I wonder why the two countries can’t even sit down to talk sense for once for the benefit of both countries.

Singapore has so many dealings with Malaysia. I am sure the republic can be persuaded to replace the causeway with a “normal” bridge to facilitate the movement of ships and boats along the Johor Strait.

I am sure Singapore, too, could benefit from it although the proposal has come from Malaysia.

Building the crooked bridge is just so uncool. It permanently epitomises the crooked relationship between Malaysia and Singapore. It shows that both Malaysia and Singapore are governed by intransigent and hard-headed people out to get each other.

Knocking down the causeway completely to free the waterway makes sense for both countries. A crooked bridge freeing only half of the waterway is probably too narrow and hazardous for navigation.

Singapore and Malaysia are inseparable in many ways. With increased traffic between the two countries, a third link may be needed in the near future. In addition to that, we have pipelines and a Rapid Transit System and more linking the two countries.

Sometimes I wonder why the two countries can to achieve so many things together and yet are unable to get the crooked bridge sorted out. So much for neighbourliness and a cordial relationship that we hypocritically hoist at joint summits and state visits.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.