Bilateral relations: Ahmad Zahid (right) pays a courtesy call on Gibran at the Vice Presidential Palace in Jakarta. — Bernama
JAKARTA: Exploring cooperation in the halal sector and labour concerns were among the issues discussed between Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Indonesian Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka.
Other matters discussed were the welfare of fishermen, regional developments and the ongoing situation in Palestine.
Ahmad Zahid’s meeting with Gibran at the Vice Presidential Palace in Jakarta yesterday was also attended by Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu and Malaysia’s Ambassador to Indonesia Datuk Syed Mohamad Hasrin Tengku Hussin.
The two leaders discussed opportunities for collaboration in the US$1.3 trillion halal sector, as well as challenges that could be tackled jointly. These included the mutual recognition of halal certificates issued by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia and the Indonesian Ulema Council.
“We will coordinate and engage in detailed discussions not only regarding the production of halal products, but also on marketing strategies,” Ahmad Zahid said at a press conference after the meeting.
The two countries also agreed to enhance the process of sending workers from Indonesia to Malaysia through the one-channel system and to address the management of fishermen who encroach on territorial waters, as outlined in a memorandum of understanding signed in 2012.
“For Malaysian fishermen who may have inadvertently crossed into Indonesian waters in unresolved territorial areas, they can be safely returned, just as Indonesian fishermen will be,” said Ahmad Zahid.
The discussion also covered bilateral cooperation on regional matters, including addressing the US tariffs and exploring new markets for crude palm oil from major producing nations, such as Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand.
Ahmad Zahid and Gibran, both deeply concerned about the plight of Palestinians, emphasised the importance of pursuing a long-term solution.
This included the reconstruction of Gaza in key areas, such as education, healthcare and infrastructure, as well as advocating for a permanent ceasefire.
When asked about the status of the proposed bridge between Melaka and Dumai in Riau, Ahmad Zahid said that a feasibility study must first be conducted.
This study would assess the return on investment and evaluate the potential for boosting trade, tourism and mobility between Malaysia and Indonesia, especially along the Straits of Malacca.
“Before any decisions are made regarding the construction of the bridge, it is essential to consider the technical, economic, social and environmental aspects,” he added.
Other matters discussed included exploring opportunities for collaboration in the Asean franchise sector, particularly for young entrepreneurs.
There was also a strong focus on initiatives to empower youth, such as student exchange programmes, social entrepreneurship and fostering innovation.
Earlier, Ahmad Zahid said relations between Malaysians and Indonesians should not be limited to government-to-government and business-to-business ties, but also be focused on people-to-people relations.
The Deputy Prime Minister believes this could bring political dividends, as well as business and trade returns that will benefit both nations.
Ahmad Zahid is on a three-day official visit to Indonesia, which concludes today.
