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  Pulau Batu Puteh, known as Pedra Branca in Singapore, is a small rocky outcrop located at the eastern entrance of the Singapore Strait. Despite its modest size, this island has been the center of a prolonged dispute between Malaysia and Singapore over its ownership. The history of this contention sheds light on colonial legacies, sovereignty, and international diplomacy. Pulau Batu Puteh's strategic location made it significant as a maritime navigational aid. In 1851, the British colonial administration constructed Horsburgh Lighthouse on the island to assist ships navigating the busy trade routes. During this time, the region was under the British Empire's control, with Malaysia's Johor Sultanate maintaining nominal sovereignty over many territories. In 1953, the Singapore colonial government, then under British administration, sought clarity from Johor's government regarding Pulau Batu Puteh's status. A letter from Johor’s Acting State Secretary indicated that J...