KOTA KINABALU: Approximately 175,000 Indonesian citizens have been recorded to be working in the plantation sector in Sabah, said the Indonesian Consul in Tawau, Aris Heru Utomo.
"The relationship between the two countries, especially in Sabah, extends beyond the economic sector and includes interpersonal relationships.
"I also express gratitude to the Malaysian government for its cooperation and concern for Indonesian citizens, particularly in Sabah, regarding their health and educational needs," he was quoted in a statement after paying a courtesy visit to Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Juhar Mahiruddin and his wife, Toh Puan Norlidah R.M. Jasni, at Istana Seri Kinabalu yesterday.
Aris and his wife Diah Mandarasih Utomo, also conveyed greetings from Indonesian President Joko Widodo and Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi to Juhar.
Aris began his duties as the new consul on May 16, replacing Heni Hamidah, who has returned to serve at the Foreign Affairs Ministry headquarters in Jakarta, Indonesia.