KUCHING: The Indonesian consulate here held a Cultural Night and Awards on Thursday to celebrate Jahar Gultom’s service as Consulate General of Indonesia since 2015.
Jahar served in Kuching after moving from the Consulate General’s Office in Vanimo, Papua New Guinea, but did not announce the name of the country he would be assigned to after Sarawak.
In his speech at the event, Jahar advised Indonesian workers here to project a positive image of their country.
“All of you are ambassadors of Indonesia in Malaysia and should maintain a good image of Indonesia,” he said.
Since Indonesia was a densely-populated country, its citizens were forced to find a living in Malaysia, he added.
“Work well, gain as much experience as you can and maintain close relationships with the local people,” he added.
According to Jahar, Malaysia is the best country while Sarawak is a symbol of unity.
“Wherever I will be assigned, I will continue to talk about Malaysia and Sarawak in particular.
“Therefore, I am grateful to the Sarawak government which has always cooperated with Indonesia in various aspects, especially economic and social,” he explained.
Jahar said Indonesia would continue to strengthen its ties with Malaysia.
“The Malaysian government is changing (now led by Pakatan Harapan) but Indonesia remains a good friend of Malaysia.
“In fact, Prime Minister, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohammad chose Indonesia as the first destination of his official visit in the new government,” he added.
Also present at the event on Thursday night were Sarawak Chief Minister, Datuk Patinggi (Dr) Abang Johari Tun Openg and Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Youth and Sports, Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
