ESPIONAGE IN MALAYSIA (Allegation of Singaporeans' involvement)

Dr Lee Siew-Choh asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs whether he will make a statement concerning the allegation that Singaporeans had been involved in espionage in Malaysia.

The Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr Wong Kan Seng): Mr Speaker, Sir, the 'allegation' that Dr Lee referred to was made by a member of the opposition in the Malaysian Parliament. The Malaysian Government has responded to this in its Parliament. It would be improper and counter-productive for me to comment further. All governments must treat such subjects with sensitivity.

Dr Lee Siew-Choh: Regardless of whether or not the Malaysian Government has issued a statement, does it not strengthen solidarity of ASEAN and relations between Malaysia and Singapore if Singapore should deny this categorically?

Mr Wong Kan Seng: I think the question by the Member is in the category of questions from journalists who may ask him, "Have you beaten your wife?" It is in the category of questions which some journalists may ask him whether or not he has beaten his wife.

Mr Chiam See Tong: Of course not!

Mr Wong Kan Seng: Then the headline will be, "Mr Chiam denies that he has beaten his wife."

Dr Lee Siew-Choh: I do not quite follow the logic of the Minister. But does he not agree, generally speaking, that silence in this particular instance could be interpreted as assent to what has been alleged in Kuala Lumpur?

Mr Wong Kan Seng: Sir, whatever was alleged in Kuala Lumpur has already been dealt with in Kuala Lumpur and it is not the Government's policy to comment on matters like this.