MIRI – The 38th Session of the Indonesia-Malaysia Socio-Economic Working Committee (SOSEK MALINDO) at the Sarawak–West Kalimantan level has reinforced bilateral cooperation, with both sides addressing pressing cross-border issues and exploring new opportunities for collaboration.
The meeting, chaired by Dato Sri Dr Muhammad Abdullah Zaidel, Deputy State Secretary (Economic Planning and Development), focused on matters ranging from border post operations to cross-border security and economic activities.
Among the key topics discussed were the management of the movement of remains between the two countries, the operation of the Temaguk Border Post and the Telok Melano Border Control Post, as well as concerns over the construction of a lighthouse by Indonesia in areas under Sarawak’s administration.
Dr Muhammad Abdullah, who also serves as Chairman of the SOSEK MALINDO Sarawak Working Committee, emphasised that the platform plays a crucial role in facilitating economic activities while curbing cross-border criminal activities that can lead to national income losses.
He further proposed that North Kalimantan and East Kalimantan be included in future sessions to expand the cooperation network under SOSEK MALINDO. This, he said, would strengthen regional collaboration and broaden the scope of socio-economic development initiatives.
“Cooperation under SOSEK MALINDO is vital not only for economic growth but also for ensuring security in border areas. Security is a key factor in the successful implementation of socio-economic programmes,” he explained.
The conference also highlighted the importance of exploring new areas of collaboration in both the social and economic sectors. Delegates agreed that maintaining strong security measures in border regions is essential to support long-term development and people-to-people ties.
The Sarawak delegation was joined by senior officials including Miri Division Resident Galong Luang, Sarawak Police Commissioner Datuk Mohamad Zainal Abdullah, Sarawak State Security Council Director Hafizi Putit, and Sarawak Immigration Department Director Abdul Halim Abang Naili.
Representing West Kalimantan was Ibu Linda Purnama, Head of the SOSEK MALINDO delegation, along with other provincial leaders. Their participation underscored the shared commitment to strengthening ties between the two regions.
The SOSEK MALINDO framework, established in 1985, has long served as a platform for Malaysia and Indonesia to address socio-economic and security issues along their shared borders. Over the years, it has facilitated cooperation in areas such as trade, infrastructure, immigration, and law enforcement.
With the inclusion of new provinces and the expansion of its agenda, the committee is expected to play an even greater role in fostering regional stability and prosperity. The latest session in Miri reaffirmed the determination of both Sarawak and West Kalimantan to continue building on this partnership for the benefit of their people.
