PUTRAJAYA, June 8 – In a momentous visit, the Honourable Prime Minister of Malaysia, Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, hosted the President of the Republic of Indonesia, His Excellency Joko Widodo, for a Working Visit to Malaysia on 7 and 8 June 2023. The two leaders engaged in fruitful bilateral discussions, aiming to strengthen the relations between their respective countries and foster peace, security, and stability in the region for the prosperity of their peoples. During the visit, several significant agreements and memoranda were signed, demonstrating the commitment of both nations to enhancing cooperation.
The signed instruments include the Agreement on Border Crossing (BCA), the Agreement on Border Trade (BTA), the Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in Investment Promotion, the Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) on Mutual Recognition of Halal Certification for Domestic Products, the Treaty Relating to the Delimitation of the Territorial Seas of the Two Countries in the Southernmost Part of the Straits of Melaka (SOM Treaty), and the Treaty Relating to the Delimitation of the Territorial Seas of the Two Countries in the Sulawesi Sea (Sulawesi Sea Treaty).
Additionally, both leaders addressed the issue of discriminatory measures against palm oil by the European Union (EU) through the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). They called on the EU to address these measures promptly and work towards a fair and equitable resolution. A significant achievement was reached with the signing of the SOM Treaty and the Sulawesi Sea Treaty, marking the culmination of almost two decades of negotiations on maritime boundaries delimitation. The leaders expressed their determination to expedite internal processes for the simultaneous entry into force of these treaties.
They also committed to resolving land boundary issues and other related matters by June 2024. The signing of these treaties symbolizes the harmonious relationship between Malaysia and Indonesia and establishes a solid foundation for future maritime boundary negotiations. Furthermore, both leaders tasked their maritime boundary negotiation teams to initiate negotiations on all remaining maritime boundaries between the two countries.
Emphasizing the importance of collaboration, both sides highlighted their commitment to effectively implement the MOU on the Treatment of Fisherman by Maritime Law Enforcement Agencies and ensure the safety and livelihood of fishermen from both countries. The leaders acknowledged the commitment to improve the protection of Indonesian migrant workers in Malaysia and encouraged continuous efforts to facilitate their employment. They also agreed to review the existing Memorandum of Understanding on Recruitment of Indonesian Workers to address all issues pertaining to migrant workers comprehensively.
Discussing the situation in Myanmar, both leaders expressed concern over the ongoing violence and called for the full implementation of the Five-Point Consensus (5PC). They reiterated their unified position that the 5PC remains ASEAN’s main reference and urged the cessation of violence to enable inclusive national dialogue and humanitarian assistance in Myanmar. Reaffirming the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP), both sides emphasized the importance of ASEAN Centrality in maintaining peace, stability, and prosperity in Southeast Asia and the wider region.
The visit concluded with satisfaction, highlighting the solid and significant outcome that underlines the comprehensive relations between Malaysia and the Republic of Indonesia. Both leaders expressed their commitment to address outstanding bilateral issues before the 13th Leader’s Annual Consultation, to be hosted by Indonesia, fostering continuous cooperation and positive momentum. The visit marked a significant step towards further strengthening the ties between Malaysia and Indonesia, fostering regional stability, and promoting mutual prosperity for the benefit of both nations and their peoples.
