KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 6 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today expressed solidarity with the people of Indonesia following the volcanic disaster and haze-related challenges currently facing the country.

Anwar said he conveyed this when he contacted former Indonesian President Joko Widodo, better known as Jokowi, who is currently in Penang to attend the Penang Peace Dialogue.

In a post on his Facebook page today, Anwar said the conversation also saw the two leaders exchange updates.

Anwar also apologised for being unable to meet Jokowi in person in Penang due to his previously scheduled programme with farmers, livestock breeders, smallholders and the agro community at the Malaysia Agriculture, Horticulture and Agrotourism Exhibition (MAHA) 2026.

“Malaysia and Indonesia are not merely neighbouring countries, but two kindred nations bound by history, culture and close ties of brotherhood.

“Positions and responsibilities may change hands, but friendship and mutual respect will endure,” he said, stressing that the ties would continue to be nurtured for the well-being of the people of both countries and the prosperity of the region.

According to a report by national news agency ANTARA, Jokowi attended the Penang Peace Dialogue held in George Town and shared his views on the role of leaders and the people in laying the foundations for peace at a gala dinner last night.

Jokowi is also scheduled to deliver a keynote address at the forum today. — Bernama