Jakarta, 16 November 2021 (TDI): The Prime Minister of Malaysia, Ismail Sabri Yaakob visited Indonesia for three days, last week. This was his inaugural visit. Upon his arrival to Indonesia, he was warmly received by the President of Indonesia, Joko Widodo.

Meeting between Prime Minister of Malaysia and President of Indonesia

In a meeting, the two heads of the state discuss a wide range of issues pertaining to mutual interest. The agenda of the meeting was to discuss bilateral issues, including permits for community learning centers, cooperation to protect Indonesian citizens in Malaysia, and negotiations on national boundaries; at sea and on land.

In addition to that post-pandemic economic recovery also came under discussion. Regional issues like the Myanmar situation and the South China Sea were also part of the discussion.

Travel Corridor Arrangement

The leaders of Indonesia and Malaysia agreed to start a travel corridor arrangement (TCA) between the two countries. The Indonesian President made this announcement in a press conference after he met with the Malaysian Prime Minister. He said that the travel corridor between Malaysia and Indonesia will facilitate the post-pandemic economic recovery in the two countries.

Indonesia
Prime Minister of Malaysia called on President of Indonesia during his inaugural visit

Joko Widodo further underscored that Indonesia and Malaysia as allied nations and closed neighbors should boost cooperation based on mutual respect and benefit.

The Malaysian Prime Minister on his part stated that the two states will open their borders; preferably with Kuala Lumpur – Jakarta – Kuala Lumpur and Kuala Lumpur – Bali – Kuala Lumpur.

Indonesia and Malaysia share a contiguous border; terrestrial as well as maritime. Diplomatic ties between the two were established in 1957. Both countries are members of ASEAN. They also collaborate in meetings as well as joint ventures; as ASEAN membersThe bilateral relationship between the two neighboring nations is of utmost significance in Southeast Asia.