JAKARTA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim received a grand ceremonial welcome as he met with the country’s President Joko Widodo at the National Palace in Bogor on Monday (Jan 9).
Anwar, who donned a songkok and a dark suit with red tie, was given a red carpet welcome when he arrived at the National Palace at 10am.
He was greeted by Jokowi upon arrival at the compound of the historic executive office and official residence of the republic's president.
During the welcoming ceremony, Malaysia's national anthem Negaraku and Indonesia Raya, the national anthem of Indonesia, were sung, followed by a 19-gun salute, as well as an inspection of troops.
Anwar is currently on a two-day official visit to Indonesia
The two leaders are expected to discuss areas of mutual interest and benefits, including investment potential, manpower, border and security issues affecting both sides of the border.
The two leaders will head to the palace’s Teratai Room for a photo session and guest book signing.
There will be a tete-a-tete on the veranda of the palace, known as the Veranda Talk.
The Veranda Talk denotes an intimate conversation between the Indonesian president and his guests who are considered close and important in terms of relations.
Anwar also toured Kebun Raya Bogor in the palace grounds in a buggy driven by Jokowi. The garden is about 87ha in area and features more 15,000 types of trees.
Anwar is expected to plant a Merawan tree on the grounds of the palace.
The prime minister will also witness the handing over of the Letters of Interest (LOI) of Malaysian firms that are interested to take part in the development of Indonesia's new planned capital Nusantara.
This will be followed by a joint press conference by the two leaders.
He is also scheduled to deliver a public lecture on “Malaysia-Indonesia Strategic Relationship” later Monday.
