Indonesia, Malaysia Can Become Major Asian Powers, Says Historian

By Mohd Nasir Yusoff

PADANG (Western Sumatra), April 19 (Bernama) -- Indonesia and Malaysia are on the right track and period of time to collaborate and emerge as major powers of Asia, an Indonesian historian said today.

Des Alwi, 80, who used his close relationship with past Malaysian leaders to play a major role in resolving the Indonesian Confrontation with Malaysia, said both countries had the strength and edge to achieve that.

"I am sure that if both countries were to collaborate with the strength and edge that they have, they can emerge as major economic and diplomatic powers," he told Malaysian journalists here.

Des said that after having enjoyed 50 years of diplomatic relations, the time was now right for both Indonesia and Malaysia to look 50 years ahead and see how they can overcome obstacles impeding efforts to forge greater cooperation for mutual benefit.

Earlier, Des had attended a one-day seminar on the Bung Hatta annual lecture in appreciation of 50 years of diplomatic relations between Indonesia and Malaysia at the Andalas University, here.

Des said their efforts would be all the more possible considering that relations between both countries were at their best following the close relationship between President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono of Indonesia and Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi of Malaysia.

Meanwhile, a representative of Bung Hatta's family, lecturer Sri Edi Swasono said in his speech that in consolidating their relations, Indonesia and Malaysia should tide over minor obstacles for bigger achievements of mutual benefit.

He expressed amazement at the wisdom of Malaysian leaders in charting a path out of the economic recession without having to bow to the demands of foreign powers.

Prof Datuk Dr Zainal Kling of Malaysia, in his lecture, said that under the leadership of Abdullah, more emphasis was given to Malaysian-Indonesian camaraderie and that consultations and discussions formed the basis of bilateral relations.

Western Sumatra Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Asnawi Bahar said focus should be given to tourism, agriculture, plantations and fisheries in the effort to enhance development of the region with Malaysian assistance.

"Small industries of both countries should be encouraged to step up trade between them, particularly in the export of handicraft to Malaysia," he said.

-- BERNAMA