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[INSIGHT] Malaysia-Indonesia: Partnership in challenging times
First and foremost is how the two countries can further cooperate in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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![[INSIGHT] Malaysia-Indonesia: Partnership in challenging times](https://img.jakpost.net/c/2020/07/13/2020_07_13_100063_1594621962._large.jpg)
Malaysia's Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin smiles during a session of the lower house of parliament, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia July 13, 2020. (Reuters/Lim Huey Teng)
T
he visit to Indonesia by Malaysian Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin – starting today and ending with a meeting with President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo tomorrow morning – is a reflection of the sheer urgency and necessity for the two countries to work together in these uncertain and challenging times.
Taking place amid a viciously virulent pandemic, this is Muhyiddin’s first overseas visit since becoming Malaysia’s prime minister.
That and the simple fact that Jokowi agreed to host Muhyiddin under these circumstances – even as the prime minister’s visit will be a swift one – are testaments to how the two governments place a premium on the bilateral relationship.
So what should be the focus of the discussions when the two leaders meet tomorrow morning at the Merdeka Palace?
In a relationship that is as deep, complex and comprehensive as the one between Indonesia and Malaysia, there is hardly the risk of having little to talk about.
But it is probably safe to assume – without the privilege of having insights into official deliberations – that at least three issues will be at the top of the agenda.
First and foremost is how the two countries can further cooperate in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic.
