Jakarta, IO – President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo met with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in Malaysia, Thursday (8/6). Both leaders concluded the maritime border negotiations between the two neighboring countries after 18 years.
“First, I welcome the negotiations on territorial sea boundaries in the Sulawesi Sea, in the southern Malacca Sea, after 18 years. The 18-year negotiation process can be completed, thank God,” Jokowi said at a press conference with Anwar Ibrahim, reported CNNIndonesia.
Anwar Ibrahim recounted how Jokowi lobbied him personally during his visit to Indonesia.
“During my meeting at the Bogor Palace, Mr. President, in a relaxed way told me. ‘Anwar, this negotiation has been going on for decades, it has not been completed. This is a very clear commitment from the president,” said Anwar.
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Indonesia-Malaysia are known to be involved in maritime boundary negotiations at a number of points in history. If this dispute is not resolved by the two countries, it could end up being brought to the International Court of Arbitration.
Jokowi previously emphasized that his official visit to Malaysia was carried out to highlight the issues of territorial boundaries and Indonesian migrant workers. He also said his trip is to reciprocate Anwar’s visit to Indonesia in January. (un)