He said that, the bilateral relation between Saudi Arabia and Indonesia is going great. Both countries have strong cooperation in politics, religious affairs especially Islam, economy, culture and education, and sociological affairs.

“We can see the results of our cooperation have brought positive impacts to various aspects, particularly in politics,” he said.

Regarding cooperation in religious affairs, both countries have strong relation especially in management of Hajj, and the relation is special as Indonesia is the largest Muslim population country in the world. “Government of Saudi Arabia is honored to provide all services for Muslims during Hajj,” he said.  

He explained that in economy, both countries are listed as members of G20. This indicates that both countries have strong economic prowess, and that will bring positive impact to internal economic growth and empowerment in respective countries.

He added that Indonesia and Saudi Arabia also have strong cooperation in culture and education, seen from cooperation in student exchange between both countries’ education ministries for education or research purposes.

“Hopefully in the future we will strengthen cooperation between Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and ITB by having a visit to each other,” he said.

At the end of the commencement speech, Esam. A. Abid expressed his expectation to the graduates. He hopes that the knowledge learned during their study in ITB will bring benefits. “Previously, you face challenges during your study in ITB. Today, you will reap the fruit of all your efforts,” he said.

He also give his appreciation to rector, executives, professors, lecturers, and all stakeholders of ITB for the efforts of giving education to the graduates until they pass through all challenges and achieve what they want today. As a conclusion to his speech, Esam. A. Abid presented the best graduate in each faculty/school in ITB with a pilgrimage to Mecca.