Muafakat Between Indonesia, Malaysia Must Extend Beyond Economic Collaboration

SHAH ALAM, Feb 12 (Bernama) -- Indonesia and Malaysia’s muafakat must extend beyond economic collaboration to include enhanced cybersecurity, counterterrorism efforts, and maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region, said Senior Political Secretary to the Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin. 

“Indonesia and Malaysia must deepen intelligence-sharing mechanisms, enhance cyber defence capabilities, and strengthen our joint maritime security initiatives to protect vital trade routes, particularly the Malacca Strait.

“Defence technology collaboration, including advancements in AI-driven defence systems and drone technology, will be crucial in ensuring regional stability,” he said in his opening speech at the GlobalMADANIInteract session, held in conjunction with the working visit of Indonesia’s Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Arif Havas Oegroseno here, Wednesday. 

bootstrap slideshow

Shamsul Iskandar said the rise of misinformation and digital propaganda necessitates stronger media literacy programmes and regulatory mechanisms to counter fake news and disinformation.

As economic partners, Indonesia and Malaysia must foster digital literacy, innovation, and interconnectivity across ASEAN, to ensure that no nation or community is left behind in the transition.

He said initiatives like the ASEAN Smart Cities Network, digital trade agreements, and supply chain resilience in key industries - including semiconductors, palm oil, and electric vehicle batteries - will be key to strengthening the economic foundations of both countries.

bootstrap slideshow

“Joint investments in startups and emerging technologies will further boost regional competitiveness in the digital economy,” he said.

Shamsul Iskandar also called on ASEAN to stand united in addressing emerging cyber threats, digital espionage, and geopolitical challenges that could undermine regional progress.

He said as the digital transformation presents vast opportunities for economic expansion, from fintech and AI-driven industries to the digital economy and green technology, ASEAN must ensure that its regulatory frameworks support inclusive growth while enabling businesses and entrepreneurs to thrive.

Cross-border e-commerce platforms such as Shopee, Lazada, and Tokopedia are driving economic integration, while the rise of fintech and digital payment systems - such as Malaysia’s Touch ‘n Go and Indonesia’s GoPay - exemplifies the potential for seamless economic transactions across ASEAN, he added.

According to Shamsul Iskandar, ASEAN can expect enhanced digital and technological cooperation - strengthening cybersecurity laws, AI governance, and digital trade agreements to support seamless digital economic expansion under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s leadership.

He said ASEAN can also expect stronger people-centric policies, which ensure economic policies that prioritise equitable growth, digital inclusivity, and youth empowerment across the region. 

Another expectation under Anwar’s leadership, he said is enhanced digital and technological cooperation such as strengthening of cybersecurity laws, AI governance, and digital trade agreements to support seamless digital economic expansion.

“...the future of ASEAN depends on our ability to adapt, innovate, and collaborate. The Muafakat between Indonesia and Malaysia must serve as a cornerstone for regional strength, and with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim at the helm of ASEAN, we must champion economic justice, digital transformation, and security stability,” said Shamsul Iskandar. 

-- BERNAMA