Indonesia-Malaysia to finalise labour MOU as talks enter final stage

DISCUSSIONS to finalise a new memorandum of understanding (MoU) on the placement and protection of Indonesian formal-sector workers in Malaysia have reached an advanced stage, though certain crucial issues remain under deliberation, according to Indonesia’s Ambassador to Malaysia, Datuk Raden Mohammad Iman Hascarya Kusumo.

“The matter is still under discussion as of today and has reached the final stage, although there are still several points that require further consideration,” the ambassador told reporters on Saturday after officiating the International Conference Tracing Seven Decades of Malaysia-Indonesia Relations, held in conjunction with the 50th anniversary of the Indonesian Higher Education Alumni Association (PAPTI) at the Tun Hussein Onn Hall, World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur.

“At present, I am unable to provide a specific timeline for its completion, but I hope it can be implemented as soon as possible,” he added.

Raden Mohammad Iman confirmed that meetings with Malaysian counterparts would be arranged in the near future to continue discussions on the MoU, while awaiting further instructions from Indonesia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The MoU, previously highlighted by former Indonesian ambassador Datuk Hermono, is expected to strengthen protections for Indonesian workers in Malaysia and will complement existing agreements covering domestic workers.

Reflecting on his objectives as Indonesia’s newly appointed ambassador, Raden Mohammad Iman emphasised the importance of preserving and enhancing the robust bilateral relations between the two countries.

“I believe the mandate given to me is to maintain the good relations already in place and, at the same time, further enhance them across various sectors,” he said.

He identified investment, trade, education, health, and tourism as priority areas, while underscoring the need to sustain harmonious relations between the peoples of both nations.

“We aim to remain on the path of longstanding friendship and brotherhood between Indonesia and Malaysia,” he added.

The ambassador also appealed to both the Indonesian community in Malaysia and Malaysians to support continued efforts to deepen mutual understanding and bilateral cooperation.

“I hope the Indonesian community in Malaysia and our Malaysian friends in Indonesia will continue to uphold the spirit of unity and brotherhood and strengthen all forms of collaboration in the future,” he said. - - January 25, 2026