| Hakim Hayat |
ON THE occasion of the Republic of Indonesia’s anniversary of the 73rd Independence Day which falls today, the Indonesian Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Dr Sujatmiko praised the long-standing excellent ties Brunei Darussalam and Indonesia have shared over many years in different areas, expressing confidence the alliance will continue to be boosted for the benefit of both nations.
In his Independence Day message to the people of Brunei Darussalam and Indonesians residing in the Sultanate, Dr Sujatmiko said, “This year has seen significant achievements by both countries in strengthening cooperation. His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, and Indonesian President Joko Widodo met during His Majesty’s State Visit to Indonesia in May this year and have reinforced the foundation for both countries to move forward to enhance cooperation in various fields.”
The ambassador said that following up both leaders’ decisions during His Majesty’s State Visit in May this year, Indonesia and Brunei Darussalam held the 4th Joint Committee for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) Forum from July 19-20.
The JCBC Forum is a bilateral consultation forum aimed at exploring economic and business opportunities as well as mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries.
The forum saw the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Sriwijaya Air and Syarikat Kejuruteraan Bumiputera Belait Sdn Bhd for flights from Bandar Seri Begawan to Balikpapan and commitment of both countries to intensify finalisation of the MoU on the Placement and Protection of Indonesian Workers in Brunei Darussalam, the envoy said.
“The JCBC also laid nine priorities of bilateral cooperation stated by Foreign Minister of Indonesia Retno Marsudi, whereby both countries committed to enhance cooperation in various fields including strategic industry, health, agriculture, tourism, consular affairs and regional and international issues. These will be the focus of our bilateral cooperation and programmes in the years ahead,” he said.
In conjunction with the anniversary of Indonesia’s independence, the ambassador also shared that the embassy will organise a series of events including an exhibition of Indonesian products and culture titled ‘Magnificent Indonesia’ at the Times Square Shopping Centre in Berakas from August 30 to September 2.
“Through the event, I hope that our two nations will be closer and able to boost cooperation and bring mutual benefits for the welfare of the people of both countries,” he added.
Independence
On the occasion of Indonesia’s anniversary of the 73rd Independence Day, Dr Sujatmiko said that exactly 73 years ago today, the people of Indonesia declared independence. “It was the pinnacle of the arduous struggle of our forefathers who have sacrificed their lives and everything else for the country.
“During this auspicious day, I would like to express my utmost gratitude to Allah the Almighty for His blessings for the 73rd anniversary of Indonesia’s independence and His blessings to all Indonesians, in particular those residing in Brunei Darussalam. I also would like to extend, once again, my warmest greetings and felicitations to His Majesty and the people of Brunei for the 72nd birthday of His Majesty. May His Majesty continue to guide Brunei Darussalam to its desired destination,” he added.
He also extended his appreciation on behalf of the Indonesian Government and people of Indonesia for the sympathy and prayers offered by His Majesty and the people of Brunei Darussalam for the victims of the recent earthquake in Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia.
Achievements
The theme for this year’s Independence Day of Indonesia celebration is Kerja Kita, Prestasi Bangsa (Our Work, Nation’s Achievement).
Dr Sujatmiko said, “Indeed, it is due to the hard work of all Indonesians that the country reached its current position in the global political economy. Early this year, Indonesia’s gross domestic product (GDP) hit one trillion dollars, entering the so-called trillion-dollar club with other 15 countries. In 2030, Indonesia’s GDP is projected to reach USD2.88 trillion, which will enhance Indonesia’s position in the G20 as well as the United Nations (UN).
“Indonesia’s on-going policy reforms have shown its results in the investment sector. The country’s rank on Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) in 2018 surged 19 places to 72 from its previous rank of 91 in 2017. Meanwhile, Moody’s, Standard & Poor’s and Fitch Ratings have upgraded Indonesia’s sovereign credit rating to “investment grade” last year. Yet, we strive to reach a higher rank, especially on the EoDB, which is still far from Indonesian President Joko Widodo’s target position in the top 40.”
He added, “In terms of international relations, Indonesia conveys its gratitude for the support of countries that elected it as a Non-Permanent Member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for a fourth time in June 2018. Our priorities as the Non-Permanent Member are to strengthen the ecosystem of peace and stability, to strengthen the synergy between the regional organisation and UN Security Council; to improve a comprehensive approach in dealing with transnational crime; and to synergise efforts to create peace with the achievement of development agenda 2030. Such special privilege surely brings great responsibility.
“We thank the Government of Brunei Darussalam for its strong support during the election and hope for the Sultanate’s continuous support in addressing peace and security issues in the world, especially in this region of ours.”
Dr Sujatmiko also shared that domestically, Indonesia is preparing for simultaneous presidential and legislative elections in April 2019.
“It will be the 12th national election and the fourth direct election of the President and Vice-President in the long history of Indonesian democracy. This democratic festivity will involve all Indonesians, including those who live in Brunei Darussalam. Therefore, I urge all Indonesian citizens to participate in the election next year in an orderly manner,” he said.
Concluding the message, the ambassador conveyed his congratulations to his Indonesian brethren on the occasion of the 73rd anniversary of the independence of Indonesia.
He said, “Let this historic moment be an opportunity for us all to celebrate, reflect and renew our commitment for a stronger, diverse yet unified nation and continue to strengthen Indonesia-Brunei relations. Dirgahayu Indonesiaku, Kerja Kita, Prestasi Bangsa.”