Kuala Lumpur: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has emphasized the importance of forging stronger people-to-people connections between Malaysia and Indonesia. He proposed that such relationships should extend beyond the traditional government-to-government and business-to-business ties.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid believes that by enhancing people-to-people relations, both nations could reap benefits in terms of political dividends as well as business and trade returns. During a dinner event at the Malaysian Embassy in Kuningan, South Jakarta, he highlighted the importance of preserving the shared sense of togetherness between the two countries, suggesting that strong interpersonal relationships are crucial.

Ahmad Zahid is currently on a three-day official visit to Indonesia. He also remarked on the issue of United States tariffs, suggesting that Malaysia, as the ASEAN Chair in 2025, should take the lead in fostering cooperation among ASEAN member states to address thi
s challenge.

The dinner event was attended by Malaysians residing, working, and studying in Indonesia, providing them with an opportunity to interact directly with the Deputy Prime Minister. Ahmad Zahid, accompanied by his wife Datin Seri Hamidah Khamis and Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu, was welcomed by Malaysian Ambassador to Indonesia Datuk Syed Mohamad Hasrin Tengku Hussin and Malaysia’s Permanent Representative to ASEAN Datin Sarah Al Bakri Devadason.

The event, which was held in the spirit of Aidilfitri, began with the national anthem and prayers. It also featured welcoming remarks by Syed Mohamad Hasrin and showcased Malaysian culture, with guests donning traditional Batik attire.