HLC MALINDO UNDERSCORES ATM–TNI COMMITMENT TO TRANSPARENCY AND PROFESSIONALISM

By Mohd Iswandi Kasan Anuar

JAKARTA, Nov 11 (Bernama) -- The Malaysia–Indonesia High-Level Committee (HLC Malindo) meeting discussed efforts to strengthen cooperation, including enhancing mutual trust through transparency and professional interaction between the armed forces of both nations.

Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) Chief, General Tan Sri Mohd Nizam Jaffar, said the initiative is not limited to official platforms but is also being expanded through informal channels at all levels of command to further enhance confidence-building and mutual understanding.

“These two neighbouring countries must demonstrate that there is no problem that cannot be resolved if we understand transparency, implement confidence-building measures, and show mutual respect,” he told Malaysian media after the meeting on Tuesday.

Mohd Nizam also stressed that trust and transparency between both countries are crucial in today’s geopolitical environment and information landscape to prevent minor issues from being amplified on social media, which could lead to misunderstanding.

The 18th edition of HLC Malindo, held biennially, also discussed joint exercises, border security, and cooperation between the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri), including a proposal for four-party collaboration involving ATM, the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), PDRM, and Polri.

The meeting also emphasised the importance of balanced development in border regions of both countries—such as Sarawak–Kalimantan and Johor–Riau—to create a more prosperous and conducive environment through socioeconomic working groups.

Touching on geopolitical developments, he said both sides remain committed to the principle that any regional issue should be resolved within the framework of ASEAN Centrality.

He expressed confidence that transparency fostered through existing cooperation platforms can help reduce suspicion, prevent conflict, and strengthen mutual understanding.

“ATM and TNI must continue to support each other, remind one another, and most importantly, enhance bilateral cooperation to ensure regional stability and the continued well-being of the peoples of both nations,” said Mohd Nizam, who co-chaired the meeting for the first time with TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto.

-- BERNAMA