BILATERAL ties between Penang and Indonesia will continue to be strengthened, says Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
Speaking at the celebration of the Republic of Indonesia’s 79th Independence Day at G Hotel Gurney in George Town this evening, Chow expressed his pleasure in being part of the joyous and memorable occasion.
“Given the deep-rooted ties between our two nations (Malaysia and Indonesia) – anchored in shared language, history, culture, and religion, as well as bonds that extend through familial and business connections – Indonesia’s political developments will always be of significant interest to Malaysians.
“Penang, in particular, values Indonesia’s support in helping to fortify the state’s position as one of Southeast Asia’s leading medical tourism hubs.
“With this in mind, I hope that the theme of Indonesia’s 79th Independence Day celebration, ‘Nusantara Baru, Indonesia Maju’, will serve as a catalyst for a more progressive and dynamic Indonesia in the years to come,” Chow said.
He also extended heartfelt thanks to consul-general Wanton Saragih Sidauruk and Indonesian consulate officers for their ongoing efforts in fostering Indonesia’s warm relations with Penang.
Indonesia gained its independence from the Netherlands on Aug 17, 1945.
Distinguished guests attending the event included consul-general of Indonesia in Penang Wanton Saragih Sidauruk, consul-general of China in Penang Zhou Youbin, Thai consul-general in Penang Raschada Jiwalai, Penang Financial Officer Datuk Zabidah Safar, Penang Island City Council (MBPP) mayor Datuk A. Rajendran, and former state executive councillor Datuk Seri Abdul Halim Hussain.
In his address, Wanton emphasised the Indonesian government’s continued commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation with Penang.
“Relations between Indonesia and Malaysia continue to thrive, and I am confident that the cooperation between Indonesia and Penang has significantly contributed to the progress of our bilateral ties.
“This is evident in the high mobility of people travelling between Indonesia and Penang,” Wanton said.
Wanton highlighted the importance of air connectivity, noting that there are approximately 80 direct round-trip flights between Penang and Indonesia each week, covering destinations such as Kuala Namu, Jakarta, Surabaya, and Aceh.
“This frequency is second only to flights between Kuala Lumpur and Indonesia.
“The high volume of Indonesian travellers to Penang reflects various purposes, including business, education, work, and medical treatment.
“In conclusion, it is our shared hope that the strong relationship between Indonesia and Malaysia, especially with Penang, will continue to grow in the future,” Wanton concluded.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis
Video by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat