KUCHING, Nov 22: Malaysia and Indonesia have agreed to release fishermen and fishing vessels detained by both countries for encroaching into the waters of the respective countries.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said he had reached the agreement with Indonesian President Joko Widodo that the fishermen detained belonged to the poor income group who were in need of protection.
Speaking to reporters after the 12th Malaysia-Indonesia Annual Leaders’ Consultation in Kuching today, Najib said fishermen detained by both countries would be released soon so they could return to their own home countries to continue their livelihood.
Meanwhile, Najib said both countries had agreed to reopen the Entikong and Tebedu border posts after the Joint Trade and Investment Agreement to benefit the people living in both countries.
He added that Sabah also requested for the setting up of border posts at Serudong and Simanggaris.
Both countries agreed to collaborate on development along border areas such as in agricultural activities, free trade zone, and small and medium enterprises to benefit both countries.
Najib also said Malaysia had also agreed in principle to Indonesia’s request to set up more community learning centres in Sabah and Sarawak for Indonesians, which the state governments would further discuss with Indonesia. Currently there are 68 centres in Sabah and 10 in Sarawak. — DayakDaily
