INDONESIA PLEDGES FULL SUPPORT FOR MALAYSIA'S ASEAN CHAIRMANSHIP: FM RETNO

JAKARTA, July 4 (Bernama) -- Indonesia has pledged full support for Malaysia in its role as the ASEAN chair in 2025, particularly in addressing the Myanmar issue, according to Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi.

During bilateral discussions with Malaysian counterpart Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan in Putrajaya on Wednesday, she expressed hope that Malaysia would continue the inclusive approach Indonesia implemented during its tenure as ASEAN Chair last year.

“We discussed the deteriorating situation in Myanmar. There hasn’t been any progress towards inclusive dialogue,” she stated.

Retno said both countries agreed to strengthen unity among stakeholders through inclusive dialogue, expand non-politicised humanitarian aid, and garner international support for ASEAN’s collective efforts.

On the Palestine issue, Marsudi highlighted shared concerns and commitments to supporting Palestinian independence, affirming ongoing bilateral and international support.

Addressing the Malaysia-Indonesia border issue, she welcomed the completion of negotiations for land segments on Sebatik Island and Sinapad-Sesai, with plans to formalise these agreements into a memorandum of understanding (MOU).

She pointed out that the technical process for the West Pillar on Sebatik Island to AA2 segment is in its final stages, with both sides preparing a field plan to be annexed to the MOU.

“Negotiations are ongoing for maritime boundaries in the Intertidal and Gap area of the Sulawesi Sea,” she said, stressing adherence to the MOU Common Guidelines to ensure the safety of fishermen.

Other topics covered during the discussions included the protection of Indonesian citizens in Malaysia, improving education access for children of Indonesian migrant workers, and enhancing cooperation to combat human trafficking across ASEAN.

During her visit, Marsudi also paid a courtesy call to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, discussing preparations for the upcoming 17th Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) to be hosted by Indonesia this year.

-- BERNAMA