Coordinating Minister Yusril: Education serves as a bridge to strengthen Indonesia-Malaysia relations
The Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Correctional Affairs, Yusril Ihza Mahendra, stated that education is a long-term investment that not only impacts the improvement of human resources but also strengthens the relationship between Indonesia and Malaysia.
Yusril emphasised that the relationship between Indonesia and Malaysia is built not only through inter-governmental cooperation but also through the interaction of the younger generations of both countries. “Therefore, the younger generation is encouraged to continuously increase their self-capacity, expand their knowledge, and take a role in driving the progress of civilisation and national development,” Yusril said when confirmed in Jakarta on Wednesday.
These remarks were made during the Gala Dinner of Malaysia’s BEST SPM Talents Trip to Indonesia in Jakarta on Tuesday, which was also attended by Dato’ Zuraidi Rahim. Yusril expressed his hope that participants of the Malaysia’s BEST SPM Talents Trip to Indonesia programme could utilise the visit to get to know Indonesia more closely, broaden their horizons, and build networks beneficial for future human resource development. He also encouraged students to develop their potential to face increasingly complex global challenges.
On this occasion, Yusril introduced the history and diversity of Indonesia, particularly Jakarta, which evolved from Jayakarta and Batavia to become the national centre of government, economy, and culture. Yusril also noted that historical, cultural, and linguistic proximity serves as vital capital for the Indonesia-Malaysia relationship. He noted that the Indonesian and Malay languages share the same roots and act as a link for communities within the Southeast Asian region.
The former State Secretary Minister also shared his personal experience studying in Malaysia, which he noted expanded his horizons and strengthened his understanding of the importance of education in building character and cross-border community relations. Through this activity, it is hoped that cooperation in education, cultural exchange, and human resource development between Indonesia and Malaysia will become increasingly robust, contributing to a more inclusive and competitive bilateral relationship.