JAKARTA - The top military officials of Malaysia and Indonesia recently engaged in discussions to find solutions for border-related matters during a meeting of the High Level Committee Malaysia Indonesia (HLC-Malindo).
Leading the meeting in Kuala Lumpur last Thursday were Malaysia’s Chief of Defence Force, General Tan Sri Affendi Buang, and his Indonesian counterpart, Admiral Yudo Margono.
One of the points in the agenda was the Social Economic Working Group (KK Sosek), which aimed to strengthen social and economic collaboration, according to Indonesia’s Home Ministry.
Dr Safrizal ZA, who is heading the Indonesian KK Sosek, praised the advancements made during the previous year through the collaborative efforts of Malindo Sosek.
He stressed the significance of promoting cross-border trade for economic growth and preventing the smuggling of illicit goods, while emphasising effective communication and cooperative strategies to prevent undesired incidents along the border.
"The HLC-Malindo provides an opportunity for both countries to further strengthen the existing relationship,” he said in a statement.
Safrizal underscored the strategic importance of developing border regions, where security and welfare approaches are interconnected.
Representative from the Malaysian Sosek also highlighted positive outcomes, including successful efforts in regions such as Sarawak-West Kalimantan, State of Sabah-North Kalimantan, Johor-Riau Islands Province, and the joint secretariat, it added. - BERNAMA