On the third day of the Malaysia–Indonesia Trade and Political Networking Programme, jointly organised by the MCA Economic & SMEs Affairs Committee together with the MCA Selangor State Liaison Committee, the delegation continued its official engagements in Indonesia with a series of courtesy calls and dialogue sessions aimed at deepening bilateral cooperation.

The delegation, led by Datuk Ir. Lawrence Low, MCA Vice President and MCA Economic & SMEs Affairs Committee Chairman, began the day with a courtesy call to Yang Terhormat Yahya Cholil Staquf, Chairman of the Central Board of Nahdlatul Ulama (PB NU).

PB NU is a key body responsible for guiding organisational policy, strengthening unity among Muslims, and promoting a moderate Islamic approach that emphasises tolerance, peace and interfaith harmony.

During the meeting, Lawrence Low commended PB NU for its longstanding role as a respected institution not only among Muslims, but also across other religious communities. He also expressed appreciation for NU’s role in recognising the Chinese community and Chinese language in Indonesia after decades of restrictions, noting its positive and cooperative relationship with the Chinese community.

Yahya Cholil Staquf conveyed PB NU’s openness to collaboration across multiple sectors, including healthcare and plantation industries, highlighting that NU is involved in a wide range of sectors, including education, with an estimated membership of approximately 120 million.

Both sides also exchanged views on halal certification and related industries, recognising the significant global market potential in this area.

The delegation then paid a courtesy call on Yang Terhormat Bapak Faisol Riza, Deputy Minister of Industry of Indonesia.

Faisol Riza expressed strong interest in expanding cooperation that could benefit both countries, not only in the industrial sector but also in education and talent development. He acknowledged MCA’s experience in education through institutions such as Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR), Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT), and the VTAR Institute.

The Indonesian Ministry of Industry plays a vital role in shaping national industrial development policies, enhancing industrial competitiveness, promoting investment, and advancing manufacturing, downstream industries, and small and medium enterprises.

The delegation also held a dialogue session with the Indonesia Employers Association (APINDO), a key organisation representing employers and the business community since its establishment in 1952.

APINDO’s Head of International Relations, Ms Catharina Widjaja, expressed interest in strengthening cooperation with the MCA Economic & SMEs Affairs Committee. Both parties agreed to explore the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to formalise future collaboration. Her deputy, Mr Didit Ratam, was also present.

During the session, Lawrence Low introduced Hospital UTAR, as well as MCA-linked public listed companies including Matang Berhad and Star Media Group Berhad.

The day concluded with a business matching session and dinner with Himpunan Pengusaha Muda Indonesia (HIPMI), an influential organisation that serves as a platform for young entrepreneurs to build networks, foster business collaboration, and promote entrepreneurship.

Approximately 30 young Indonesian entrepreneurs attended the session, led by Mr Victor Herryanto, Chairman of Badan Pengurus Cabang (BPC) HIPMI North Jakarta Branch (2025–2028). HIPMI members are all below the age of 40, with some also participating in the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KADIN), which represents the broader private sector at the national level.

The engagement is expected to further strengthen Malaysia–Indonesia economic ties, create new opportunities for SMEs, and enhance regional collaboration in key growth sectors.

22 April 2026

-MCA Comm-