Kuala lumpur: The media plays a significant role in shaping people’s perception, strengthening regional ties, and promoting constructive narratives between Malaysia and Indonesia. Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching emphasized the importance of reinforcing the long-standing relations between the two countries.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Deputy Minister Teo expressed confidence that Ikatan Setiakawan Wartawan Malaysia-Indonesia (ISWAMI), along with editors-in-chief and media organizations from both nations, will continue to play crucial roles in fortifying Malaysia-Indonesia strategic ties and fostering a deeper understanding among their people. She urged the media to act as a unifying bridge during a dialogue session with Indonesian media’s editors-in-chief and ISWAMI leaders.
The session was attended by key figures including Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) CEO Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin, Bernama editor-in-chief Arul Rajoo Durar Raj, Radio Television Malaysia (RTM) deputy director-general of Broadcasting (Strategic) Hamzah Ishak, and ISWAMI Malaysia president Datuk Ahmad Zaini Kamaruzzaman.
Teo highlighted the strong relationship between Malaysia and Indonesia, which is based on common history, language, and culture. She noted that their close collaboration spans various sectors, including the economy, investment, education, defense, and media.
The Deputy Minister also mentioned the significant role of the relationship between the leaders of both countries in enhancing cooperation. She expressed confidence in the continued good relationship between Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, which she believes will lay the foundation for more meaningful future cooperation.
Teo pointed out that Indonesia is Malaysia’s seventh-largest global trading partner and the third biggest among ASEAN countries, with a trade value exceeding Rp299.6 trillion or RM111 billion last year, underscoring the importance of strategic ties between the two nations.
ISWAMI serves as a forum established by Malaysian and Indonesian journalists to enhance media relations between the countries.