BANTEN (Indonesia), Feb 9 (Bernama) -- The media plays a significant role in shaping people's perception, strengthening regional ties and promoting constructive narratives between Malaysia and Indonesia.
Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching said the long-standing relations between Malaysia and Indonesia must continue to be strengthened.
"I'm confident that Ikatan Setiakawan Wartawan Malaysia-Indonesia (ISWAMI), the editors-in-chief and the media organisations of both countries will continue to play crucial roles in strengthening Malaysia-Indonesia strategic ties, as well as foster deeper understanding among the people of both countries.
"Let's together ensure the media continues to be a bridge that unites, and not divides us,” she said during a dialogue session with Indonesian media's editors-in-chief and ISWAMI leaders here today.
Also present were Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) chief executive officer Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin, Bernama editor-in-chief Arul Rajoo Durar Raj, Radio Television Malaysia (RTM) deputy director-general of Broadcasting (Strategic) Hamzah Ishak and ISWAMI Malaysia president Datuk Ahmad Zaini Kamaruzzaman.
Teo said the relationship forged between Malaysia and Indonesia is strong based on a common history, language and culture, adding that his close collaboration covers various sectors, including economy, investment, education, defence and media.
She said the relationship between the leaders of both countries also plays a vital role in ensuring this cooperation continues to be enhanced.
"I'm confident the good relationship between Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and our Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, will continue to be the foundation for a more meaningful cooperation in the future,” she said.
She said Indonesia is Malaysia's seventh largest global trading partner, and third biggest among ASEAN countries, with trade value exceeding Rp299.6 trillion or RM111 billion last year.
"This shows how important the strategic ties are between both countries,” she said.
ISWAMI is a forum established by Malaysian and Indonesian journalists as a bridge to enhance media relations between the two countries.
-- BERNAMA
