Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi today received a medal of honour from Indonesia's president in appreciation of strengthening ties between the the two countries.

The "Republik Indonesia Adipradana" awarded to Abdullah is the highest medal of honour given by Indonesia, second only to medals automatically held by the president and vice-president by virtue of their office.

Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono said there had been "significant progress" in relations between the neighbours.

"The increase in cooperation between the two countries is due to the honourable services of Prime Minister Badawi," he said, adding that relations would continue to strengthen.

Medal from scout movement too

He said bilateral trade reached US$5.9 billion last year, up 28 percent on 4.6 billion dollars in 2005. Malaysian investment of US$2.2 billion was also the highest last year.

"When Johor (in Malaysia) and parts of Indonesia were flooded, we helped each other, showing that the relationship is not only during good times," said Abdullah, who was in Indonesia to receive the award.

"We will also work together as members of the OIC (Organisation of the Islamic Conference) including in the economic sectors," Abdullah said.

He was due later to receive another medal of honour from Indonesia's scout movement.