Jakarta: Malaysia and Indonesia reached several important agreements during the 13th Annual Consultation held in Jakarta, focusing on border issues, expanding economic cooperation, and accelerating the implementation of new energy projects, as announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the talks led to the signing of four memorandums of understanding (MoUs) covering various areas such as border issues, including Pulau Sebatik, health, information and communication, and internet governance. Anwar highlighted a US$30 billion bilateral trade target and investment cooperation in Ibu Kota Nusantara (IKN), along with smoother cross-border access facilities in Entikong.
Anwar emphasized Malaysia's investments in Indonesia's strategic sectors, aiming to strengthen regional prosperity. He stated that Malaysia seeks to be an honest and trustworthy development partner in fields including renewable energy, with Sarawak positioned as an export hub for infrastructure, housing, education, and technology.
Regarding maritime boundaries in the Sulawesi Sea, Anwar noted that discussions were conducted in line with international law, specifically the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), prioritizing the interests of both countries. He underscored the importance of safeguarding mutual interests while respecting established boundaries to avoid tension.
On security matters, Anwar declared that Malaysia and Indonesia committed to enhancing cooperation through the Trilateral Cooperative Arrangement (TCA) framework to maintain peace in the Sulu Sea and Sulawesi Sea. He reiterated Malaysia's focus on strategic security in the Straits of Malacca and the South China Sea, asserting that the region's fate should be determined internally rather than by external forces.
Addressing the involvement of Indonesian businessman Mohd Riza Chalid, Anwar stated that the matter should be approached within the legal framework. He expressed readiness to provide full cooperation, emphasizing the friendly relationship between Malaysia and Indonesia. This follows reports of Mohd Riza Chalid being named as a suspect in a corruption case related to the management of PT Pertamina crude oil from 2018 to 2023, with allegations of his presence in Malaysia.