Indonesia-Malaysia Relations Should Be 'Lex Specialis,' Says NasDem Party Chief

NasDem Party Chairman Surya Paloh has urged that the relationship between Indonesia and Malaysia be elevated to a "special relationship" or 'lex specialis,' moving beyond a mere calculation of trade profits and losses. This sentiment was expressed during a meeting with Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister and UMNO President Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and his delegation at the NasDem Tower in Jakarta on Saturday evening (September 19, 2026). Paloh described Zahid's visit as a source of "spirit and positive energy" for the NasDem Party. He highlighted the unique closeness between Indonesia and Malaysia, stating that their fraternal bond is distinct from their relationships with other neighboring or global nations. According to Paloh, it would be a "grave mistake" not to recognize Indonesia-Malaysia relations as a lex specialis. He argued that the relationship should not be solely based on economic considerations, such as the profit and loss in trade transactions. Instead, he emphasized that the shared heritage of being "one rumpun" (one root or kin) makes their relationship a far greater foundation for their collective resilience and strength, enabling them to build their respective nations. Paloh also identified shared interests between the NasDem Party and UMNO, noting that both parties are dedicated to the progress of their respective countries. This alignment, he believes, makes it highly feasible for the close ties between Indonesia and Malaysia to become a strategic component of their joint foreign policy. Furthermore, Paloh commented on the current state of ASEAN, questioning its effectiveness as a collective force. He suggested that Indonesia and Malaysia, as friendly and kindred nations, could benefit from more frequent "sit-downs," perhaps over coffee, to collaboratively address the challenges faced by each country, not by interfering in domestic affairs, but by seeking ways to mutually strengthen each other. Paloh expressed his hope that this meeting would serve as a step towards reinforcing bilateral relations, and he extended a warm invitation to Deputy Prime Minister Zahid, assuring him that Indonesia, and particularly NasDem, considers him a friend. Source: Liputan6