M'SIA-INDONESIA ALWAYS HAVE GOOD THOUGHTS - MINISTER

PADANG (WEST SUMATERA), Dec 7 (Bernama) -- Information Communication and
Culture Minister Dr Rais Yatim said his visit here to attend the
appointment of new West Sumatera governor is proof that Malaysia and Indonesia
have good thoughts and remain friends.


He said the visit was on the encouragement of Prime Minister
Najib Tun Razak who wanted formal and informal friendship with the leaders and
people of Indonesia.

"People of both countries feel that no problem can pose an obstacle to
the harmonious ties. Efforts to sour ties have not succeeded as President
Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and the Prime Minister have tied-up many things,
uniting the two cultures and placing them highly," he said here Monday.

At the ceremony, Marlis Rahman was appointed new West Sumatera governor
replacing Gamawan Fauzi who was appointed Home Minister in the Cabinet of
President Susilo.



Rais who was accompanied by wife Masnah said Malaysia always
wanted good ties with Indonesia and that his visit here had succeeded in
achieving it.

"The historical event in Padang today must be seen in the context of
friendship between Malaysia and Indonesia. We have succeeded in registering our
wish to have good thoughts and to remain friends."

He said the ministry would continue to conduct research on customs or
culture with authorities in West Sumatera.

-- BERNAMA