Jokowi to visit Malaysia soon - Najib

The Prime Minister said the invitation of the Malaysian government was much appreciated by Joko, or better known as Jokowi, when the two leaders met at Istana Merdeka, the official residence of the president here, several hours after he ascended to the highest post in the republic.

"President Jokowi has agreed to visit Malaysia soon..God willing," Najib told the Malaysian media before flying home Monday.

According to Najib, during the meeting he also took the opportunity to offer his congratulations to Jokowi on his appointment to the post on behalf of the people and government of Malaysia.

Asked of his relation with Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY), who handed over the duties of the president to Jokowi after holding the post since 2004, Najib said he would continue to contact the former leader from time to time to maintain the existing ties, regarding the former president as his friend.

According to Najib, he believed SBY would be given a certain role and duty by his country of birth to commensurate with his vast experience.

The Prime Minister, who also managed to meet SBY, also expressed his appreciation to him for his contributions in maintaining good ties with Malaysia during his tenure as president.

During the news conference, Najib, who appeared cheerful, joked with journalists and showed a selfie, which he took using his new cellphone, with Jokowi, during the latest meeting at Istana Merdeka.

The Prime Minister also shared the photograph with Malaysians via his Twitter account.