Jakarta: Cooperation in the halal industry, fisheries, higher education, and the ongoing issue of Gaza, Palestine, were pivotal points of discussion during Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi’s courtesy call on President Prabowo Subianto.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid highlighted that both countries have, in principle, agreed to mutual recognition of halal certifications. Malaysia’s halal logo, managed by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM), can be used for products exported to Indonesia without the need for a new standard operating procedure. Likewise, Malaysia will recognize Indonesia’s halal certification for imports. This collaboration marks a significant advancement in bilateral trade and industry standards, endorsed by the Indonesian Minister of Religious Affairs and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka.
Ahmad Zahid addressed the media following the meeting with Prabowo at the Merdeka Palace in Central Jakarta, which lasted nearly two hours. He proposed the establishment of a regional halal industry forum, jointly organized by Malaysia and Indonesia, and suggested the creation of an ASEAN Halal Council. This council aims to streamline the issuance of halal certificates and position ASEAN as a significant market for intra-regional trade.
On maritime issues concerning fishermen at the borders, Ahmad Zahid and Prabowo agreed to adhere to the 2012 memorandum of understanding. They emphasized the importance of issuing warnings to fishermen who inadvertently cross territorial waters. Ahmad Zahid urged Malaysian fishermen to maintain the use of the Automatic Identification System (AIS) in the Straits of Malacca to ensure monitoring by authorities and preserve bilateral relations.
The leaders also emphasized promoting Malaysian higher education in technical and professional disciplines in Indonesia. This initiative aims to increase the number of Indonesian students pursuing studies in Malaysia.
Regarding the conflict in Gaza, Ahmad Zahid and Prabowo called for a permanent ceasefire and the facilitation of humanitarian aid. They expressed a shared commitment to urge the international community to support reconstruction efforts in Gaza and Palestine.
Reflecting on his official visit, Ahmad Zahid expressed satisfaction with the discussions, which encompassed broader bilateral, regional, and international issues. He hoped for continued collaboration between Malaysia’s Wisma Putra, the Indonesian Foreign Ministry, and other relevant departments.
Ahmad Zahid concluded his three-day official visit and departed from Soekarno Hatta International Airport.