KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia and Indonesia have agreed to mutually leverage on its own strengths across various sectors, including in oil and gas as well as defence, while continuing cooperation in existing fields, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister said both countries shared a close history, language, culture and proximity in borders, and must continue to enhance cooperation in areas such as the economy, trade, investment and development.
He added that this can only happen with mutual understanding, closeness, confidence and trust among leaders.
"A prime example of this commitment is ensuring stronger collaboration between Petronas dan Pertamina (Indonesia's state energy company), two major oil companies in the region, to explore new streams and business opportunities," he told a joint press conference with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto here at the Petronas Twin Towers on Monday (Jan 27).
The Prime Minister said this can only happen if there is mutual understanding, but also closeness, confidence, and trust among leaders and its leadership teams.
"I extend my highest gratitude for providing clear instructions to the respective Ministers, officials, and related departments, as well as the private sector, to ensure that everything we agree on is implemented as soon as possible," he added.
Meanwhile, Prabowo revealed that his meeting with Anwar had touched on comprehensive cooperation on various issues and was confident that both countries would be able to resolve various bilateral problems, including border and labor issues.
"The essence is the political decision that Malaysia and Indonesia work closely together. Other matters, including technical issues, we can resolve.
"What’s important is the political and strategic will, and we are confident we can solve border and bilateral issues. Regarding labor issues, we also agreed to regulate them," he said.
Aside from that, the Indonesian president said that both countries would collaborate further in developing the palm oil industry, which has become a crucial commodity with high demand from many countries.
On the geopolitical front, Prabowo stated that Malaysia and Indonesia must continue to engage in discussions to voice shared perspectives and synergy with other Asean partners.
"Only through unity among Asean countries and strong cooperation between us can our voices be heard by powers far greater than us.
"On the issue of Palestine, we firmly believe there is only one solution, which is the two-state solution.
"We welcome the current ceasefire and hope it will last," added Prabowo.
