JAKARTA: Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad will be given the honour to plant angsana tree (rosewood) saplings on the grounds of Istana Bogor, the Indonesian presidential palace when he meets Joko Widodo (pic) on Friday (June 29).
The Prime Minister, who is arriving here later Thursday (June 28) evening for an official visit, will also be accorded a 19-gun salute and inspect a guard of honour at Istana Bogor here.
"Angsana wood is known for its durability and that is symbolic of Indonesia's relations with Malaysia.
"Last year was the 60th year of Malaysia-Indonesia diplomatic relations and Jakarta is our strategic partner. This visit will further strengthen ties, " Zamshari Shaharan, the Malaysian deputy chief of mission in Jakarta told reporters here.
He said Dr Mahathir is widely respected in Indonesia and his visit is highly anticipated by leaders and the business community here.
Jokowi will personally greet Dr Mahathir and Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Ali when they arrive at the Halim Perdanakusuma International Airport.
Immediately after arrival, he will hold a special session with some 300 Malaysians living in Jakarta.
The Prime Minister will also meet the who's who of Indonesia's business community on Friday.
Zamshari also said Dr Mahathir is also seen as a senior figure in the region and ties between the two countries can serve as the bedrock for Asean cooperation.
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