"We are saddened by how Singapore always acts. In a way that could jeopardize the close ties between Malaysia and Singapore," he was quoted as saying by the official Bernama news agency.

Mahathir cited the example of how Malaysia was forced to move out of its naval base in the republic 10 years ago.

Singapore gave an undertaking that Malaysia's facilities would remain in the republic in accordance with the agreement previously entered with the British colonial government but Singapore failed to abide by it, he said.

"They deliberately increased the rate for the lease (of land) for the naval base in Woodlands (Singapore). So we were forced to vacate and we vacated without being paid even a single cent. We did not make a fuss over the matter," the 77-year-old premier said

Mahathir said that the water supply issue also caused problems in bilateral ties.

Mahathir said Singapore had been asking for more water and Malaysia had promised to meet their request.

"But they object to a review of the price even though it has been agreed that after 25 years, we could negotiate the price of water. After 25 years, not on reaching 25 years," he said.

"And there are many other actions by Singapore which do not help in preserving ties with Malaysia."

Water has been a key irritant in bilateral relations since Singapore was kicked out of the Malaysian Federation and gained independence in 1965.

Other disputes straining bilateral ties include a proposed new bridge linking the two countries, use of Malaysian airspace by Singaporean aircraft and the location of Malaysia's customs, immigration and quarantine facilities in Singapore.

The two neighbours are now locked in a war of words over a strategically located islet that Singapore occupies.

Malaysia maintains it has had overeignty over Batu Putih island since the early 16th century.

However Singapore says it has exercised sovereign rights on what it calls Pedra Branca since the 1840s, when the British colonial government occupied the islet and constructed a lighthouse.

Malaysia and Singapore are members of the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

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