PM Anwar (right) was among 19 foreign leaders and heads of state invited to the event. – Photo The Star/ANN

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia will continue to be a strategic partner of Indonesia as it strengthens the bond of friendship with the republic, says the Prime Minister.

In a Facebook post, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim expressed confidence that the inauguration of Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto will further enhance collaboration with Malaysia and also elevate the region on the global stage.

Anwar, who was among several world leaders who attended the inauguration ceremony of the eighth Indonesian president in Jakarta yesterday, described the event as meaningful and significant.

“It marks a milestone in Indonesia’s democratic history and regional political development.

“With Bapak Prabowo Subianto’s long political journey having faced numerous challenges and tests, I am confident that he will serve wholeheartedly and together with Malaysia, help foster harmony and elevate the stature of this region to greater heights,” he said.

Prabowo, 73, and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, 37, took the oath of office for the 2024–2029 term at a People’s Consultative Assembly plenary session.

Anwar was among 19 foreign leaders and heads of state invited to the event. They included Sultan of Brunei Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr, Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, Serbian Prime Minister Milos Vucevic and Timor-Leste Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao, Bernama reported.

Anwar also expressed appreciation to Indonesia’s seventh President Joko Widodo for his contributions and cooperation with Malaysia during his tenure from Oct 20, 2014.

In a wide-ranging inaugural speech after his swearing-in ceremony, Prabowo said he and his Vice-President will serve all Indonesians.

Prabowo takes the helm as the leader of the world’s third largest democracy by population following his victory in the 2024 presidential election on Feb 14 where he secured 59% of the vote.

Alongside Gibran, Prabowo defeated challengers Anies Baswedan and Ganjar Pranowo who received about 25% and 16% of the votes respectively. – The Star/ANN