President Prabowo, PM Anwar Deepen Indonesia–Malaysia Partnership

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto welcomed Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta on Friday, March 27, 2026, in a meeting that blended Eid al-Fitr camaraderie with serious talks on global affairs.

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya said the two leaders used the occasion to exchange views on international developments, particularly the shifting geopolitical landscape in West Asia.

“In a warm atmosphere, both leaders celebrated Eid al-Fitr while discussing the dynamics of geopolitics in West Asia and various strategic issues of mutual concern,” Teddy noted, as quoted by Infopublik website.

The meeting lasted nearly three hours, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Jakarta time, and was marked by familiarity and ease. Teddy emphasized that the closeness between the two leaders was evident throughout. “President Prabowo accompanied Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in the same car to Halim Airport,” he said, underscoring the personal rapport between them.

That warmth carried into the farewell. As President Prabowo and PM Anwar walked together toward the vehicle, they shared light conversation and smiles. The traditional song Rasa Sayange was played as the Prime Minister prepared to depart, adding a cultural touch to the moment.

At Halim Perdanakusuma Air Force Base, PM Anwar was honored with a ceremonial guard before boarding his plane.

Foreign Affairs Minister Sugiono, State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi, and Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya joined President Prabowo in bidding farewell. From the tarmac, President Prabowo waved as PM Anwar returned the gesture from the aircraft door. At 7:20 p.m., Anwar’s plane lifted off, closing a visit rich in both diplomacy and personal connection.

The encounter reaffirmed the strength of Indonesia-Malaysia relations, highlighting not only shared political and economic interests but also cultural ties and mutual respect. The leaders’ display of camaraderie is expected to serve as a foundation for deeper cooperation across government and society. ***