KUALA LUMPUR: Indonesian Communications and Informatics Minister Budi Arie Setiadi has admitted to being a fan of Malaysian rock group Iklim as well as solo artistes Datuk Sheila Majid and Datuk Zainalabidin Mohamad.
Budi Arie said in an interview with 15 Malaysian journalists under Program Jejak Serumpun Ikatan Setiakawan Malaysia-Indonesia (Iswami) at his office in Jakarta yesterday that Malaysia had many brilliant artistes whose songs were popular in both countries.
"There are many great singers from Malaysia, and my personal favourites are Sheila Majid, Zainalabidin and Iklim," he said, adding that he loved Zainalabidin's environmental song Hijau which carried the profound message of saving the planet.
Budi Arie also said it would be good if more Malaysian and Indonesian artistes work together in music as well as film, for such collaborations would boost their respective careers and contribute to the growth of the creative industries of both countries.
"Malaysia and Indonesia have long worked together in music and cultural activities, such as the Salam Muhibah concerts which were held in past decades," said Budi Arie.
"It would be good to revive them for the new generation."
The Malaysian journalists are on a visit to Indonesia to observe and cover the country's ongoing general election.