His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam has consented to send a message of congratulations to Dato Laila Utama Dr Hj Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, President of the Republic of Indonesia, as well as the government and people of Indonesia on the occasion of their 67th Independence Day.

In the message to Dato Laila Utama Dr Hj Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, His Majesty was very pleased and satisfied with the level of cooperative relations as well as the existing close friendship between the two countries and prayed that these very good relations would be maintained and enhanced further in time to come.

His Majesty also took the opportunity to wish the Indonesian President the best in welcoming the month of Ramadhan as well as the upcoming Hari Raya Aidilfitri festivities.

In ending the message, His Majesty prayed that Allah would bestow him, Datin Ibu Hajah Ani and family health and happiness as well as blessing the people of Indonesia with continued peace, well-being and prosperity.

Meanwhile, His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, also sent a similar congratulatory message to his counterpart, Dr RM Marty M Natalegawa, Indonesia's Minister of Foreign Affairs, as well as the government and people of Indonesia on their 67th Independence Day.

His Royal Highness thanked him for the out-standing chairmanship of the Asean meetings last year and His Royal Highness looks forward to continuing their work together in the warm spirit of support and cooperation that both countries share as close friends and neighbours.

His Royal Highness also sent his best wishes to him and family for a joyous Ramadhan and a very happy Aidilfitri. - Borneo Bulletin (17 August 2012)