Dr M happy construction to start
NST-27/1/2006
Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad is happy that Malaysia is going ahead with the construction of a bridge across the Johor Strait.

Doubting Singapore’s willingness to work with Malaysia on the matter, the former prime minister said in his typical acerbic style:

"I waited 22 years and still did not get the permission to raise (the price of raw water sold by Malaysia to Singapore) to four sen from three sen (per 1,000 gallons). So if you want to wait (for Singapore), you can wait until kingdom come."

Taking a dig at the Government’s directive to call the bridge "scenic bridge" instead of "crooked bridge", Dr Mahathir asked in jest: "Is it spelt c-y-n-i-c? Is that how you spell it?"

Speaking to reporters after launching the first anniversary of Edusmith, a bi-monthly magazine aimed at students, he added: "I’m quite sure it will be a very beautiful bridge, very scenic." 

On ties with Singapore, Dr Mahathir said both countries now had a very good relationship.

On another matter, he said he had no intention of resigning as Proton adviser.

However, he added: "I’m appointed, so if people want to sack me, I’ll go."

On the reported alliance between Proton and Mitsubishi Motors Corp, Dr Mahathir said he would leave it to the national carmaker to decide.

"I don’t give advice anymore," he said. "They just informed by writing to me, saying they wanted to (have an alliance with Mitsubishi)."