Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said Malaysia and Indonesia made significant progress on border matters, economic ties, and clean energy projects during the 13th Annual Consultation in Jakarta.
Bernama reported that among the main outcomes of today’s meeting with Indonesian president Prabowo Subianto were the signing of four memorandums of understanding covering border issues including Pulau Sebatik; health; information and communication; and internet governance.
“We discussed various important matters, including the US$30 billion bilateral trade target, investment opportunities in Ibu Kota Nusantara, and smoother cross-border facilities in Entikong,” Anwar said at a press conference in Jakarta.
He added that Malaysia’s investments in strategic sectors in Indonesia were to strengthen regional prosperity.
Anwar said Malaysia wants to be a trusted development partner in various fields including renewable energy, infrastructure, housing, education and technology.
On maritime boundaries in the Sulawesi Sea, Anwar said discussions were based on international law, especially the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, and the mutual interests of both countries.
“We want to safeguard each other’s interests while respecting the boundaries established in accordance with international law. We will continue in that spirit so that there is no tension,” he said.
On regional security, Anwar said Malaysia and Indonesia agreed to strengthen cooperation under the Trilateral Cooperative Arrangement to maintain peace in the Sulu and Sulawesi seas.
Anwar also reiterated Malaysia’s focus on strategic security in the Straits of Malacca and the South China Sea, emphasising that regional matters should be resolved by countries in the region and not external powers.
When asked about Indonesian businessman Riza Chalid, who has been linked to a corruption case and is reportedly in Malaysia, Anwar said the matter should be addressed through legal channels.
“We’ve only received general information so far, but Malaysia is ready to cooperate fully, as both countries share strong bilateral ties,” he said.
