CORDIAL MSIA-INDONESIA TIES SHOULD CONSIDER NEW ELEMENTS

PUTRAJAYA, Nov 12 (Bernama) -- The cordial relations between Malaysia and
Indonesia that has existed for so long should be further strengthened by taking
into consideration new elements in line with the new structure in Indonesia
under the administration of President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, said Najib
Razak.

The Prime Minister said the new elements comprised the media, members of
parliament and various other groups who also contributed directly or indirectly
to the bilateral diplomatic relations.

"I suggest that we not only continue to maintain the traditional ties namely
the government-to-government ties, the relations between the Indonesian National
Military (TNI) and the Malaysian Defence Forces (ATM), and police-to-police
relations, but to look also at the new Indonesian structure so that there will
be a sense of influence that must be nurtured," he said at the dinner in honour
of Susilo's visit to Malaysia at his residence, Sri Satria, here Wednesday
night.

Najib said the close relationship with the media, if not developed
carefully, could lead to the media making various assumptions that could result
in undesired situations cropping up.

"The parliament is also important. Members of parliament cannot be taken for
granted. We also need to nurture good relations between the two parliaments as
well as the various parties," he said.

The prime Minister said the close friendship between the two governments
should filter down to the various sectors and groups in the two countries.

Meanwhile, Susilo in his speech said the close proximity between Malaysia
and Indonesia and the friendship that had been established for so long resulted
in both countries being frequently exposed to contradicting opinions.

He said such a scenario should not be allowed to jeopardise the existing
relationship and should instead be treated with care and wisdom.

"I always say that Indonesia has never had any problems with Rwanda
or Colombia because our positions are so far apart but with Malaysia we
certainly have occasional differences but what encourages me is that we all
realise that it is normal.

"What is important is that we both look at it intelligently and wisely so
that everything can be handled smoothly," he said.

Susilo said Malaysia and Indonesia were now undergoing a major change in the
world including Asean's new emergence as an economic power.

He said bilateral cooperation between the two countries played a major role
and contributed significantly in improving the global economy particularly in
the Asian region.
--BERNAMA