Indonesia-Middle East & North Africa Monthly Brief: February 2025
Jordan Invited to Invest in Indonesia’s Energy and Manufacturing Sectors: On February 3, 2025, Indonesian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sugiono, received a courtesy call from the Jordanian Ambassador to Indonesia, Sudqi Al Omoush. The meeting took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Jakarta. The main focus of the discussion was to strengthen bilateral relations, particularly in the trade and investment sectors.
Indonesia and Saudi Arabia Strengthen Drug Handling Training: On February 3, 2025, 20 members of the Directorate General of Narcotics Control of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia attended a training in Jakarta. The training was titled Training on Combating Illicit Drug Trafficking and Abuse: New Psychoactive Substances (NPS). It was officially opened at the BNN Building, Cawang, East Jakarta. The main objective is to strengthen cooperation in the eradication of narcotics, especially new psychoactive substances (NPS).
Celebrating 75 Years of Diplomatic Relations, Indonesia-Iran Issues Unique Stamps: On February 4, 2025, the Iranian Embassy in Indonesia held a celebration of Indonesia-Iran diplomatic relations. The celebration also commemorated the 46th anniversary of the victory of Iran’s Islamic Revolution. The Iranian Ambassador to Indonesia, Mohammad Boroujerdi, introduced the special edition stamps. The stamp design incorporates elements of art and culture from both countries.
Improving Defense Cooperation, Indonesian Defense Attache in Cairo Visits Chief of Staff of the Egyptian Navy: On February 5, 2025, the Indonesian Defense Attaché in Cairo, Colonel Laut (P) Dafris D. Syahruddin, M.M.Sc., visited the Chief of Staff of the Egyptian Navy. The meeting took place at the Egyptian Navy Headquarters, Alexandria. The discussion included strengthening cooperation between the navies of the two countries. Cooperation includes joint exercises, education and training, and defense industry development.
Algerian foreigner steals from five East Jakarta convenience stores in a day: On February 5, 2025, a foreigner from Algeria named Abdelmalek Bouzid (40) was arrested by the police. He was proven to have stolen from five minimarkets in one day in Duren Sawit, East Jakarta. The main item stolen was coffee.
Minister of Defense Receives Honorary Visit from Saudi Ambassador: On February 5, 2025, the Indonesian Minister of Defense, Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, received the Ambassador of Saudi Arabia, Faisal Bin Abdullah H. Amodi. The meeting took place at the Ministry of Defense office, Jakarta. Discussions included strengthening defense cooperation between Indonesia and Saudi Arabia.
Indonesian Embassy in Cairo Socializes Online Export Application for MSMEs: On 6 February 2025, the Indonesian Embassy in Cairo held a socialization of the use of the CargoX.io application. The target participants are MSME players who want to facilitate the export process to Egypt.
Strengthening Animal Health Collaboration between Indonesia and Iraq: On February 6, 2025, an Iraqi delegation visited the Indonesian Ministry of Agriculture. The visit aimed to strengthen cooperation in animal health and livestock disease management.
Antawirya UNDIP Team won the Shell Eco Marathon 2025 Qatar: Team Antawirya Diponegoro University (UNDIP) won the Shell Eco Marathon Asia Pacific & Middle East 2025. The competition took place on February 8-12, 2025 at Lusail International Circuit, Doha, Qatar. The Antawirya team defeated 61 teams from various countries with energy-efficient vehicle innovations.
ASFA Foundation sends Islamic Boarding School Asatidz to Oman: On February 12, 2025, the Chairman of ASFA Foundation, Komjen Pol (Ret.) Dr. Syafruddin Kambo, met the Minister of Waqf of Oman. The meeting in Muscat discussed educational cooperation and productive waqf development.
Saudi Arabia sends 100 tons of Ramadan dates to Indonesia: On February 14, 2025, Saudi Arabia distributed 100 tons of dates to Indonesia ahead of Ramadan. The symbolic handover was made by the Ambassador of Saudi Arabia to the Indonesian Minister of Religious Affairs, Nasaruddin Umar. The dates will be distributed to mosques, campuses, and orphanages.
Al-Azhar University Rector Visits Darunnajah Islamic Boarding School: On February 21, 2025, the Rector of Al-Azhar University Egypt, Prof. Salamah Daud, visited Darunnajah Islamic Boarding School. The visit was in the framework of the International Seminar on the Role of Wasathiyyah in Building Global Peace. Affirming the role of pesantren in promoting Islamic moderation (wasathiyyah).
Peace Mission: 467 TNI Soldiers Departed to Lebanon: On February 21, 2025, 467 TNI personnel from Yonif 114/SM were dispatched to Lebanon. They joined the Yonmek TNI Task Force of the Garuda Contingent (Konga) XXIII-S UNIFIL.
Indonesia Must Reject Discourse on Relocation of Palestinians: Sukamta emphasized that Indonesia must consistently reject the discourse on the relocation of Palestinians to Jordan and Egypt. This stance is in accordance with Indonesia’s foreign policy that supports Palestinian independence.
Megawati Scheduled to Meet Pope Francis and Grand Imam of Al-Azhar: Megawati will attend the World Leaders Summit on Children’s Rights at the Vatican. She is likely to meet Pope Francis and the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Ahmed El-Tayeb. The meeting is an important momentum for interfaith dialog and child protection.
Indonesian-Iranian Cultural Collaboration at the International MTQ Calligraphy Exhibition: The 4th International MTQ calligraphy exhibition featured 40 artworks from Indonesia and Iran. The event became a venue for cultural collaboration as well as education in the art of Qur’anic calligraphy. Iran displayed calligraphy in the Naskh, Thuluth, and Nastaliq styles.
Indonesian Navy Strengthens Military Cooperation with Egyptian Navy: The strategic collaboration between the Indonesian Navy and the Egyptian Navy has been strengthened. Cooperation includes joint exercises, information exchange, and technology capacity building.
Iran Wants to Strengthen Ties with Indonesia in BRICS: Iran welcomes Indonesia’s membership in BRICS. Tehran hopes to strengthen economic and technological cooperation with Indonesia. Previously, the two countries had cooperated in the fields of science and technology.
Indonesian Atdikbud in Cairo Builds Education Cooperation with Al-Azhar University: Al-Azhar University in Cairo has approved the establishment of an Indonesian Language and Literature Study Program. This program is the first of its kind in the Middle East. Approved by the Grand Sheikh of Al-Azhar, Ahmed Al-Tayeb. Scheduled to start in academic year 2025.
Egyptian Company Imports 600 Tons of Coffee Beans from Bandar Lampung: Haggag Import Company, an Egyptian company, imported 600 tons of Robusta coffee beans from Bandar Lampung. This step strengthens Indonesia-Egypt trade relations in the agricultural sector.
Indonesian national team prepares special strategy to face Bahrain: The Indonesian national team is preparing a special strategy to face Bahrain in the 2026 World Cup Qualifier in Jakarta. This match has a nuance of revenge after the controversial defeat in Riffa. Referee Ahmed Al Kaf gave more than six minutes of extra time and easily gave fouls to Indonesian players.
Hamas Negotiates with Indonesia over Shelter for Freed Palestinians: Hamas is reportedly in communication with several countries, including Indonesia. These talks are related to the possibility of accommodating Palestinians released by Israel as part of the ceasefire agreement.
Indonesia-Iran Ready to Open Jakarta-Tehran Direct Flight Route: Indonesia-Iran diplomatic relations for 75 years are getting closer. The plan to open a Jakarta-Tehran direct flight route will strengthen economic and tourism cooperation.
Iran Ambassador Encourages Tourism Cooperation with Indonesia: Iran’s ambassador, Mohammad Boroujerdi, invited Indonesia to strengthen cooperation in the tourism sector. Tourism is a top priority for both countries to continue to develop.
Iran Offers New Technology Cooperation to Indonesia: Iran offers technology cooperation to Indonesia to strengthen bilateral relations. This offer was discussed during the Iranian Ambassador’s meeting with Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono. The discussion covered collaboration in various aspects of technology.
Iran Explores Potential for New and Renewable Energy (EBT) Cooperation with Indonesia: Iran is interested in exploring cooperation with Indonesia in the field of EBT. This cooperation aims to support the energy security of both countries.
Indonesian Foreign Minister and Iranian Ambassador Discuss Food Security and Investment Cooperation: Indonesian Foreign Minister and Iranian Ambassador discussed cooperation in the fields of food security, energy, trade, and investment.
Indonesia-Morocco Strengthen Education and Scholarship Cooperation: Ambassador of Morocco met Indonesian Minister of Religious Affairs to discuss education cooperation. The main focus is collaboration between educational institutions and increasing scholarship programs.
KP2MI Thwarts Departure of 7 Illegal CPMIs to Oman and Qatar: KP2MI foiled the illegal dispatch of seven prospective Indonesian migrant workers. They were about to be dispatched to Oman and Qatar without official procedures.
P2MI Ministry Facilitates the Return of Indonesian Migrant Workers Who Have Accidents in Saudi Arabia: The Ministry of P2MI pays serious attention to Indonesian migrant workers (PMI) who experience problems abroad. The government is committed to protecting PMI through legal assistance, mediation, and repatriation for those who experience problems.
ITPC Jeddah Identifies Umrah and Hajj Business Opportunities: Indonesian Trade Promotion Center (ITPC) Jeddah held a business match. Involving Indonesian MSME players in the food and beverage sector (mamin) to find opportunities in the Umrah and Hajj market.
MSMEs Assisted by Bank Indonesia West Java Export to Saudi Arabia: MSMEs assisted by Bank Indonesia West Java successfully made their first export to Saudi Arabia. A total of 28,728 packs of tempeh chips worth Rp269 million were sent by CV Kahla Global Persada.
Indonesia Women’s National Team Calls 39 Players to Face Saudi Arabia: The Indonesian women’s national team called 39 players for training camp. Preparations are made to face FIFA Matchday against Saudi Arabia, improve team cohesiveness, and devise the best strategy.
Indonesia’s national futsal team crushes Saudi Arabia 3-0 at the 4 Nations World Series 2025: The Indonesian national futsal team won 3-0 over Saudi Arabia on February 2, 2025. The match took place at the Jakarta International Velodrome, earning Indonesia the runner-up position.
KP2MI allows sending migrant workers to Saudi Arabia after two decades: KP2MI opened the opportunity to send migrant workers to Saudi Arabia after a moratorium since 2012. KP2MI Minister Abdul Kadir Karding emphasized that shipments must meet strict requirements.
United Arab Emirates Donates USD 50 Million for Indonesian Forest Reforestation: UAE shows commitment in strategic cooperation with Indonesia. The focus of cooperation includes green energy, housing infrastructure, and environmental conservation.
Indonesian Minister of Finance Receives Visit from Minister of Energy of the United Arab Emirates: Sri Mulyani received the UAE Minister of Energy, Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei. The discussion included strengthening economic cooperation between Indonesia and the UAE.
Airlangga Meets UAE Energy Minister to Discuss Energy Cooperation: Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto met the UAE Minister of Energy. The discussion highlighted investment in the green energy sector and the development of sustainable energy infrastructure.
BAZNAS RI to Build Indonesian Village in Gaza, Palestine: BAZNAS RI plans to build public facilities in Gaza, Palestine. Projects include hospitals, schools, mosques, and apartments to improve the welfare of Gazans.
Algerian Ambassador Makes ANTARA a Source of Reference for Information: Algeria’s Ambassador to Indonesia, Singapore, Brunei, and ASEAN, Abdelouahab Osmane, recognizes ANTARA as his main source of reference.
KRI Diponegoro-365 Showcases Indonesia’s Maritime Power in Lebanon Mission: KRI Diponegoro-365 is an Indonesian warship of the SIGMA class. Assigned in Lebanon in UNIFIL mission to inspect ships in the Mediterranean Sea.
ITS’ Sapuangin team wins Shell Eco-marathon Asia Pacific & Middle East 2025: ITS’ Sapuangin team won the Shell Eco-marathon for the third time in a row. The competition took place in Qatar, showcasing energy-efficient vehicle innovations.
Saudi Arabia Interested in Investing in Sumatra Tourism Sector: Airlangga Hartarto revealed Saudi Arabia’s plan to expand its tourism business in Sumatra.
President Prabowo Plans to Build Hajj Village in Saudi Arabia: President Prabowo wants to build a “Hajj Village” in Makkah for Indonesian pilgrims. The aim of this project is to improve services and comfort for Indonesian pilgrims.
Indonesia and Saudi Arabia Strengthen Trade and Investment Cooperation: Coordinating Minister for Economy Airlangga Hartarto met with Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Economy and Planning, Faisal F. Alibrahim. Discussed partnership opportunities in the energy, tourism, and Umrah and Hajj sectors.
Megawati Soekarnoputri Meets Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi: Megawati met Sheikh Khaled Bin Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan at the Sea Palace, Abu Dhabi. Discussions included the close relationship between the founding families of the two countries which is the basis for bilateral cooperation.
UAE Company Denies Involvement in Indonesian Nuclear Project: Emirates Global Aluminum (EGA) insists it is not involved in Indonesia’s nuclear project. The company’s focus remains on the aluminum industry.
Indonesia and UAE Strengthen Data Center Ecosystem: Indonesia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are working together on digital economy, food security, and infrastructure.
BSI Maslahat Builds Emergency Mosque and Renovates Hospital in Gaza: Distributed the VII phase of aid for the Palestinians. Total humanitarian assistance reached IDR 18 billion.
Indonesia sends medical equipment aid to Palestine: BAZNAS RI in collaboration with PRCS Egypt. Allocated IDR 2 billion for medical services for Palestinian conflict victims.
Chairman of Bahrain Shura Council Meets Speaker of the House of Representatives: Discussed strengthening legislative cooperation between Bahrain and Indonesia.
Al-Azhar Cairo Rector Signs Cooperation with UIII: Academic collaboration between Al-Azhar University and UIII. Focuses on the development of Islamic education.
Indonesia’s Non-Oil and Gas Exports to Egypt Increase by US$1.52 Billion: Indonesia’s non-oil and gas exports to Egypt to increase 16.36% by 2024.
Indonesia’s Leading Products Dominate Egyptian Market: 10 Indonesian superior products dominate the Egyptian market. Export growth of 16.36%.
Iranian Embassy Holds Film Festival to Celebrate 75 Years of Diplomatic Relations: In collaboration with the Indonesian Ministry of Culture. Featuring Iranian-Indonesian films.
Efforts to Increase the Number of Iranian Tourists to Indonesia: Iranian tourists to Indonesia to increase 28% by 2024. Strategies are in place to surpass pre-pandemic numbers.
Indonesian student wins hydrogen car award in Qatar: Champion in Shell Eco-marathon Asia-Pacific 2025 in Doha.
Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs Organizes Qur’an Memorization Test in Indonesia: The final qualifying round of the National Qur’an and Sunnah Memorization Competition was held in Kendari.
UAE and Indonesia Strengthen Space Technology Collaboration: The UAE strengthens bilateral relations with Indonesia in the fields of defense, communications, and space technology. Infoglobal CEO and ATRC Director General aim for strategic cooperation in space technology.
UAE Supports Circular Waste Management in Banyuwangi: UAE supports circular waste management program in Banyuwangi Regency. The support takes the form of a Funding Agreement between Clean Rivers and Project STOP. The program focuses on sustainable waste management.
Ombudsman RI Strengthens Cooperation with Iranian Embassy: Ombudsman RI received a visit from the Iranian Embassy in Jakarta. The meeting aimed to exchange experiences in public service supervision. The focus is on transparency and accountability in both countries.
Indonesia and Saudi Arabia Discuss Health and Labor Issues: Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Health, Fahd Abdulrahman Al-Jalajel, met with the Indonesian government. Discussed cooperation in health services and exchange of medical personnel. Also focused on the protection of Indonesian migrant workers in Saudi Arabia’s health sector.
Indonesian Minister of Religious Affairs Encourages Addition of Indonesian Hajj Officers: Indonesian Minister of Religious Affairs, Nasaruddin Umar, met the Saudi Ambassador. Proposed the addition of hajj officers from 2,210 to 4,000 people. The aim is to improve the service of Indonesian hajj pilgrims.
Indonesia will send nurses to Saudi Arabia: Indonesian Minister of Health, Budi Gunadi Sadikin, revealed plans to send nurses to Saudi Arabia. This effort is to fill the shortage of health workers in Saudi Arabia. Indonesia has many qualified nurses who are ready to work according to international standards.
Indonesia and Saudi Arabia Sign MoU on Digital Vaccine Certificate: The Indonesian Ministry of Health and Saudi Arabia signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU). The focus is on strengthening human resources in the health sector and exchanging health workers. The agreement includes a system for exchanging digital vaccine certificates between countries.
PT Pindad Expands Global Cooperation at IDEX 2025: PT Pindad established cooperation with world defense companies at IDEX 2025, Abu Dhabi. This step strengthens the global expansion of the Indonesian defense industry company.
Ministry of Transportation and UAE Discuss Aviation Cooperation Opportunities: The Indonesian Ministry of Transportation held a meeting with the UAE Ambassador. Discussing opportunities for strategic cooperation in the aviation sector.
