RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesian Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development, Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY), opened his keynote at Ecosperity Week 2026 with a warm, personal reflection on the enduring ties between Indonesia and Singapore.

Addressing global business leaders, investors, diplomats, and international officials, AHY described the relationships between Indonesia and Singapore as spanning generations and built on trust.

He recalled his years living in Singapore more than two decades ago. “Twenty years ago, I came to this city as a young army lieutenant, newly married, to continue my studies at NTU,” said the Nanyang Technological University alumnus, as quoted on the ministry's official website.

He described Singapore as formative in shaping his leadership outlook, citing the lessons of discipline, urban planning, and public service he absorbed during his time in Jurong West and at NTU.

AHY also highlighted his long-standing relationship with Temasek Chairman Teo Chee Hean, whom he praised not only as a statesman but also as a personal friend who has strengthened bilateral cooperation.

The emotional tone deepened as AHY linked his invitation to speak at Ecosperity Week with the broader journey of Indonesia-Singapore relations. He noted that NTU’s decision to honor him with the Nanyang Distinguished Alumni Award last year symbolized not just personal recognition but also the friendship between the two nations fostered through education and public service.

Temasek Chairman Teo Chee Hean’s warm welcome at the forum further reflected the closeness of the two countries. For AHY, Indonesia-Singapore ties now extend well beyond economics, resting on trust, collaboration, and continuity across generations.

“Friendship between nations is built by people who remain present, uphold trust, and continue working together even in times of great global challenge,” he said, stressing that Asia’s future will depend on the region’s ability to build resilient, open, and sustainable collaboration amid geopolitical uncertainty.

AHY was accompanied at the forum by Deputy for Housing and Settlement Infrastructure Development Coordination Ronny Hutahayan and Special Staff Sigit Raditya and Herzaky Mahendra Putra. ***