Indonesia’s Finance Minister Stresses Close Ties, Jokes About Missing Musang King

By Mohd Iswandi Kasan Anuar

JAKARTA, Oct 8 (Bernama) -- Indonesia’s Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa brought warmth, humour and a touch of “durian diplomacy” to Malaysia’s 68th National Day and 62nd Malaysia Day reception, lauding Malaysia’s achievements while quipping in jest about the absence of the famed Musang King durian from the celebration.

Hosted by Malaysia’s Ambassador to Indonesia, Datuk Syed Mohamad Hasrin Tengku Hussin, in South Jakarta on Tuesday night, the reception drew more than 1,200 guests, including ministers, senior officials, politicians, diplomats, business leaders, students and media representatives.

In his address, the minister extended his warmest congratulations to Malaysia, describing the country as “Saudara Serumpun”, a term symbolising the deep historical and cultural ties between the two neighbours.

“Today, we celebrate Malaysia’s journey of unity, progress and nation-building, which has shaped a dynamic and prosperous nation,” he said.

Purbaya noted that both countries have worked side by side since the founding of ASEAN and have continued to strengthen their partnership at the regional and global levels.

He stressed the close rapport between President Prabowo Subianto and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who have met at least six times this year in Jakarta and Kuala Lumpur, reflecting their shared commitment to advancing bilateral ties.

“We continue to make progress in key areas such as political dialogue, management of maritime and land boundaries, as well as cooperation in defence and security,” he added.

Purbaya pointed out that Malaysia remains one of Indonesia’s top trading partners, with Malaysian investment amounting to US$4.2 billion (RM17.7 billion) last year and a steady stream of visitors from Malaysia.

In the financial sector, he said, cooperation is expanding through initiatives such as strengthening Shariah finance collaboration, enhancing coordination between Indonesia Exim Bank and Malaysia Exim Bank to boost trade, and supporting the ASEAN Infrastructure Fund to promote green infrastructure financing.

The introduction of cross-border quick-response (QR) payment systems, he added, marks another milestone in regional financial integration.

“Beyond economy, our partnership will extend to health, education, and stronger people-to-people exchanges, which are essential in building lasting friendships between our nations.

“As we move forward, let us continue to strengthen our unity and share a vision. Together, Indonesia and Malaysia can build a more peaceful and prosperous region where our people live, thrive, and our nations grow together side by side,” he said.

In a lighter moment, Purbaya, who enjoys eating the Musang King durian, a well-known premium Malaysian fruit, whenever he visits Malaysia, made a quip, which drew laughter from the audience.

“I came not only to celebrate Malaysia’s National Day and Malaysia Day, but also to taste the delicious Musang King durian. I looked at the menu… and why is there no Musang King?” he joked.

Responding after the event, Syed Mohamad Hasrin replied with a smile: “Unfortunately, we did not serve any (durian) this time. But, Insya-Allah, we will fulfil his request.”

-- BERNAMA