Indonesia-Malaysia Relations: A New Chapter Ahead?
- Aletheia Asia
- Feb 16, 2023
- 1 min read
Updated: Apr 7, 2023
24 November 2022 was a historic day for senior Malaysian politician Anwar Ibrahim, who was appointed the 10th Malaysian Prime Minister after facing various obstacles in his political career of over two decades. This victory was not only celebrated by Malaysians but also warmly welcomed by the Indonesians. Indonesian President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) was the first head of state to congratulate Prime Minister Anwar by phone. In his congratulatory message, President Jokowi expressed hope for a stronger relationship between the two countries, especially in deepening their economic cooperation. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Anwar emphasised the importance of increasing trade, investments, and business relations, as well as cultivating cultural relations and addressing labour issues between the two countries.
Various issues between Indonesia and Malaysia could potentially derail bilateral relations, such as low-trade exchanges, border disputes, and the poor treatment of migrant workers. Nonetheless, there is still much scope for deeper and broader cooperation between the two countries, and with Malaysia under Anwar's leadership, there is hope that their national interests can be safeguarded.
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