President Jokowi Congratulates Malaysia’s New Premier Anwar Ibrahim

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo congratulated the new Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim through a telephone call from the Bogor Palace, West Java, Thursday, Nov. 24.

"On behalf of the government and the Indonesian people, I wish to congratulate Your Excellency's inauguration as the 10th prime minister of Malaysia," the President told Anwar, according to a statement from the presidential office on Friday, Nov. 25.

Jokowi told his Malaysian counterpart that Anwar is a renowned figure in Indonesia and respected by the Indonesian people. He also believed that with Anwar at the helm, bilateral relations between Indonesia and Malaysia would be more prosperous.

"I hope we could meet soon to discuss ways to enhance our bilateral relations in the economic, border issues, and protection of our people," State News Antara quoted Jokowi.

Also read: Malaysia: Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim Named PM

Responding to Jokowi's statement, the Malaysian Prime Minister expressed his gratitude and welcomed Jokowi who was among the first foreign leaders to congratulate him.

"Thank you. I take this as an honor (as you are) among the very first to call me. This proves that I will always be Indonesia's true friend," Anwar said.

He also expressed hope that bilateral cooperation in the trade, investment, and cultural fields would be enhanced under his leadership.

"I hope that our relations in trade or business, investment, culture, and friendship, God Willing, could be enhanced," the Prime Minister said.

Concluding the call, Jokowi expressed optimism that the Almighty God would always help and protect Anwar while performing his duty for Malaysia.