NEEDLESS FOR M'SIAN FIRMS IN INDONESIA TO FEAR FOR THEIR SECURITY

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 2 (Bernama) -- Deputy Foreign Minister Senator A. Kohilan
Pillay said today it was needless for Malaysian companies operating in Indonesia
to be concerned about their security due to the anti-Malaysia protests in
Jakarta.

President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono of Indonesia and the police had given the
assurance to ensure the safety of Malaysians in the republic, he said.

Furthermore, some private companies also played the role of a bridge to protect
the interests of the Malaysian companies and foster closer relations between the
two countries, he added.

"Similarly, we will ensure the safety of the Indonesian people in Malaysia," he
told reporters after closing a Small and Medium Industries (SMI) seminar at the
Putra World Trade Centre, here.

Kohilan Pillay was asked to comment on the alleged possible withdrawal of
several Malaysian companies in Indonesia following the anti-Malaysia protests
launched by the People's Democratic Front (Bendera) in Jakarta.

He said the Malaysia-Indonesia Friendship Society (Permai) had sent a memorandum
to him to express its support for Malaysia and condemnation of the Bendera
action.

The three-day seminar from Wednesday gathered almost 80 SMI players across the
country, and showcased the various SMI solutions and products under one roof.
-- BERNAMA