By Mohd Iswandi Kasan Anuar
JAKARTA, Oct 9 (Bernama) -- Indonesia’s Vice President Ma’ruf Amin and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim shared light moments on the sidelines of the ASEAN Summit at the National Convention Centre in Vientiane, Laos, on Wednesday.
The two leaders emphasised the warmth of bilateral ties between Indonesia and Malaysia during a coffee break, engaging in a friendly conversation over refreshments, according to the Vice Presidential Press and Media Bureau.
In addition to their informal discussions, Ma’ruf and Anwar prayed together, with Anwar leading the call to prayer (iqamah) while Ma’ruf acted as the imam.
“The moment not only highlighted the personal closeness between the two leaders, but also served as a strong symbol of the increasingly solid and productive relationship between the two countries in the future,” the statement read.
Ma’ruf is leading Indonesia’s delegation in the absence of President Joko Widodo, ahead of the transition of power to Defence Minister and President-elect Prabowo Subianto on Oct 20.
Earlier in a plenary session, Ma’ruf emphasised three significant milestones that have bolstered ASEAN’s role over the past decade, including the adoption of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP), which he called a vital strategic guide.
He highlighted the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) as a landmark achievement, noting that it is the world’s largest free trade agreement, covering nearly 30 per cent of global trade and one-third of the world’s population.
Furthermore, he advocated for the full membership of Timor-Leste in ASEAN, describing the move as a historic step that enhances regional solidarity.
“The membership of Timor-Leste is a historic move that not only strengthens regional solidarity but also solidifies ASEAN’s commitment and identity as an inclusive organisation,” Ma’ruf said.
However, he cautioned against complacency, stressing the need for ASEAN to adapt and enhance cooperation in response to increasingly complex global challenges.
“In a rapidly changing world, future challenges demand that ASEAN continues to adapt and collaborate even more closely.”
-- BERNAMA
