I am astounded by the anti-Singapore comments coming from high-ranking Malaysian politicians in recent weeks.

Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad has made a statement about giving the other side a "bloody nose".

On Dec 31, in comments o­n the spat over Pedra Branca, Foreign Minister Syed Hamid Albar said that ''Singapore has two choices. If it refuses to compromise...go to war''.

Such comments are highly inflammatory and irresponsible and reflect lowly o­n the politicians that run Malaysia.

Don't these leaders realise that their remarks are monitored in places like New York, Tokyo, Seoul, London and Washington DC?

If they continue to fan the flames of war it will o­nly be a matter of time before foreign investors start withdrawing from Malaysia.

This would have a devastating effect o­n the local economy. Hundreds of thousands of jobs would be lost causing widespread suffering. This is something Malaysia cannot afford. As it is, many multinational companies are already talking about relocating to China. The slightest hint of war will o­nly hasten their departure.

Given the tense situation that exists, o­ne has to give credit to the Singapore leaders for acting with dignity and restraint in this dispute.

The Malaysian politicians and media can learn something from their Singapore counterparts. Foolish comments will o­nly hurt Malaysia's interests in the long term.