Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi expressed possibility of several bridges to be built linking Malaysia and Singapore in the future.

"I believe that one day there may be several bridges linking Singapore and Malaysia, just like in places like New York, Manhattan and Korea, although these places are not in different countries," said Abdullah.

He was speaking to reporters after his presidential address at the 61st Umno anniversary bash in Putra World Trade Centre, Kuala Lumpur today.

Abdullah was quizzed on whether there were still plans to replace the existing 1,056 metre causeway to Singapore, that was built in 1923.

The causeway is often plagued by traffic jams and is reportedly unable to allow proper flow of water underneath. Ships are also unable to pass the causeway.

"Rivers and straits are not a hindrance to having bridges to ensure smooth traffic. It's something that's going to happen," he added.

Langkawi pow-wow

According to Bernama , there had been calls for the issue to be discussed when Abdullah meets his Singaporean counterpart, Lee Shien Loong, in Langkawi next week.

"We'll go to Langkawi with an open mind...to look at the latest development," said Abdullah, on whether the matter would be discussed during the meet.

Abdullah's predecessor Dr Mahathir Mohamad had made attempts to replace the aging causeway with a new bridge that was dubbed the 'crooked bridge'.

Construction of the new bridge began after Abdullah took premiership in 2003, but was scrapped in April last year, citing legal complications and unacceptable terms set by Singapore over the project.