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| After 7 Years, Indonesia-Malaysia Annual Consultation Meeting Returns in Jakarta. |
Jakarta – July 29, 2025 marked a major milestone in the diplomatic relations between Indonesia and Malaysia. For the first time in seven years, the Annual Consultation Meeting between the President of Indonesia and the Prime Minister of Malaysia was held in person. The high-level meeting took place at Merdeka Palace in Jakarta, where President Prabowo Subianto welcomed Malaysian Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim for an official working visit.
What Is the Indonesia-Malaysia Annual Consultation?
The annual consultation is a bilateral forum between the two neighboring countries aimed at addressing strategic issues, strengthening regional cooperation, and aligning positions on global matters. The last meeting took place in 2017 in Kuching, Sarawak, and has been on pause ever since.
Now, under new leadership and shared optimism, both nations have agreed to revive the tradition to build a more stable and prosperous Southeast Asia.
Who Attended the Meeting?
President Prabowo Subianto formally received Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim along with the Malaysian delegation. Also present was Indonesia’s Foreign Minister, Sugiono, who accompanied the President and later shared highlights from the discussions.
According to Minister Sugiono, the meeting was not only a formal diplomatic event, but also a reflection of the deep ties between the two brotherly nations. The dialogue was described as warm, friendly, and filled with a spirit of kinship, showcasing the strong bond between both leaders.
What Was Discussed?
The consultation involved a bilateral discussion covering several key areas, including:
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Bilateral relations progress in various sectors.
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Border negotiations and maritime security.
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Reduction in illegal fishing incidents, a long-standing issue in regional waters.
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Southeast Asian regional dynamics, especially under the ASEAN framework.
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Global challenges of mutual concern such as climate change and regional stability.
Minister Sugiono emphasized that both sides had seen real progress and that this meeting provided a platform to align future steps and resolve remaining challenges.
“There are many updates that must continue to be communicated. This consultation is an essential mechanism—not only for practical cooperation, but also to bring the two leaders closer,” said Sugiono.
Why Is This Meeting Important?
After a seven-year hiatus, the revival of this annual forum signals a new chapter of closer and more constructive ties between Indonesia and Malaysia. For President Prabowo, the relationship is not merely diplomatic—it is deeply rooted in shared history and culture.
“We come from the same roots, we share similar cultures, and we speak similar languages. That’s why the friendship between Indonesia and Malaysia must remain strong,” Prabowo emphasized, as conveyed by Minister Sugiono.
How Does This Affect the Public?
This meeting is expected to have direct benefits for both nations’ citizens, especially those in border areas and coastal communities. The agreement to reduce illegal fishing incidents, for example, could ease long-standing tensions and open doors for greater maritime cooperation.
Furthermore, discussions on regional peace and economic collaboration aim to build a more resilient and prosperous Southeast Asia for all.
When Is the Next Meeting?
While no exact date has been announced, both leaders have committed to resuming the Annual Consultation Meetings on a regular basis. This commitment marks a positive turn in bilateral diplomacy, emphasizing not just national interests but also a unified regional vision.
After seven years, the return of the Indonesia-Malaysia Annual Consultation is a powerful reminder of the deep-rooted friendship between the two nations. With sincere and strategic discussions, the meeting brought new momentum to long-term cooperation. The warm atmosphere and shared commitments reflect a renewed spirit of solidarity and regional partnership.