MALAYSIA AND INDONESIA CAN PLAY A BIGGER ROLE IN REGION - PM

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 28 (Bernama) -- Malaysia and Indonesia have very close relations and both countries can work together to play a bigger role in the region, said Najib Tun Razak.

The Prime Minister said both countries could synergise their energies to
play a bigger role on matters like the economy, climate change, disaster
management and regional security.

"Malaysia and Indonesia can further step up cooperation towards playing a
bigger role in the region.

"The close relations were are enjoying should not be jeopardised by issues
that are not significant," he said.

Najib said this in an interview with Indonesia's TV One television station
in conjunction with his visit to the republic for the swearing-in of Susilo
Bambang Yudhoyono for the latter's second term as president of Indonesia in
Jakarta last week.

A recording of the interview was broadcast by Radio Televisyen Malaysia, the
government broadcaster, on Tuesday night.


The prime minister was also asked about various issues of concern to both
countries including terrorism, Indonesian workers in Malaysia as well border
matters.

On Indonesian workers in Malaysia, Najib said Malaysia appreciated their
presence as they contributed to the nation's economic growth.

Asked about the Ambalat issue which is still a subject of dispute between
the neighbours, Najib said it needed to be resolved in an amicable manner
through diplomatic channels.

-- BERNAMA