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President Prabowo Highlights 45-Year Friendship with Malaysian King During State Visit

Jakarta, January 28, 2025 – The Europe Today: Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto reflected on his enduring 45-year friendship with Sultan Ibrahim, the 17th Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia, during his official visit to Kuala Lumpur.

Speaking at a press conference following his meeting with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, President Prabowo shared the origins of his connection with the Malaysian monarch. “The Yang di-Pertuan Agong and I have maintained ties for a very long time—perhaps 45 years. Our friendship dates back to our studies in the United States during our youth,” he remarked, as per a statement released by his secretariat.

The President also shared his emotional bond with Malaysia, recalling that he and his family lived in the country during his school years. “My family, my parents, were very close to the founding fathers of modern Malaysia, Tunku Abdul Rahman and Tun Razak. I have an emotional bond with Malaysia,” he said.

However, Prabowo acknowledged that his role as Indonesia’s head of state has made personal visits more challenging. “After becoming President, I find a visit more complicated, considering the protocol requirements and the need for many guards,” he added with a smile.

President Prabowo also emphasized the strong cultural and historical ties between Indonesia and Malaysia, noting their shared heritage and familial connections. “Some Malaysian leaders have relatives in Indonesia, reflecting our deeply intertwined histories,” he said.

During his visit to the National Palace of Malaysia, Prabowo was honored with the Darjah Kerabat Johor Yang Amat Dihormati Pangkat Pertama (Most Esteemed Royal Family Order of Johor), conferred by Sultan Ibrahim.

The visit underlined the close bilateral ties between Indonesia and Malaysia, reinforced by historical connections and a mutual commitment to cooperation and friendship.