JAKARTA: Malaysia’s Ambassador to Indonesia Datuk Syed Mohamad Hasrin Tengku Hussin says bilateral relations between Malaysia and Indonesia are progressing well at all levels, with growing engagement in political, economic, and people-to-people spheres.
Speaking at a reception in South Jakarta on Tuesday evening to mark Malaysia’s 68th National Day and 62nd Malaysia Day, Syed Mohamad Hasrin noted that this year also marks the 68th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations, which continue to flourish across multiple fronts.
“Bilateral relations between Malaysia and Indonesia are progressing well at all levels,” he said, highlighting the positive and enduring ties between the neighbouring countries.
He pointed to a 4.5 per cent increase in two-way trade to US$25.5 billion (RM116.3 billion) in 2024 and noted that Malaysians were among the top contributors to foreign visitors in Indonesia last year.
The ambassador also highlighted recent high-level engagements, including Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s working visit to Jakarta on July 29 for the 13th Annual Consultation with President Prabowo Subianto.
“We look forward to hosting President Prabowo Subianto in Kuala Lumpur for the 47th ASEAN Summit later this month,” he said.
Malaysia, holding the ASEAN Chairmanship for 2025, has advanced the theme of “Inclusivity and Sustainability” by promoting peace and security, deepening regional integration, and fostering a people-centred ASEAN Community.
Guided by this vision, the country continues to lead initiatives expanding cooperation in trade, digital economy, youth empowerment, and climate action, ensuring ASEAN remains resilient and forward-looking.
“Looking ahead, Malaysia believes ASEAN’s strength lies in unity and adaptability,” he said, adding that with the adoption of ‘ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future’ and Timor-Leste’s accession as the bloc’s 11th member, ASEAN is entering a new chapter of inclusivity and collective progress.
Syed Mohamad Hasrin expressed hope that the close bond between Malaysia and Indonesia will continue to grow for the benefit of their peoples and the prosperity of Southeast Asia.
“Together, we can ensure that ASEAN remains a zone of peace, prosperity and opportunity for decades to come,” he said, expressing appreciation to Indonesia’s leadership and people for their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.
The event was attended by about 1,200 guests, including government officials, NGO representatives, the diplomatic corps, private sector leaders, academics, students, and institutional partners.
Indonesia’s Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa was the guest of honour, with other senior ministers including Prof Abdul Mu’ti, Yusril Ihza Mahendra, Rosan Perkasa Roeslani, and Arifah Fauzi also present. – BERNAMA
