TEMPO.CO, Medan-President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo said Indonesia and Malaysia are committed to expanding the scope of protection for Indonesian migrant workers. “We underline the importance of cooperation to protect Indonesian migrant workers in Malaysia,” the President said at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, Monday, August 1, 2016.
Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak has agreed to protect Indonesian migrant workers. The Malaysian government will collect information on Indonesian workers, for example, by establishing migrant worker groups. “We will find a way to address it,” Najib said.
Indonesia and Malaysia have also agreed to step up cooperation in three issues. Firstly, on border security—including preventive measures against maritime kidnapping.
Secondly, on the ASEAN Banking Integration Framework (ABIF) between Indonesia’s Financial Service Authority (OJK) and Bank Negara Malaysia. Later, Indonesian banks are expected to have an access to open branch offices in Malaysia.
Lastly, bilateral cooperation on the increased palm oil production. “It may need a joint research to make palm oil as a product acceptable all over the world,” Najib said.
ADITYA BUDIMAN