Criticism of the Wali Nanggroe and Investment Discussions with the UAE Ambassador
Wali Nanggroe's meeting with the United Arab Emirates ambassador.
The existence of the Wali Nanggroe institution in Aceh (Indonesia) has often been criticized by various parties. This institution is considered to have no clear function, some of which assume the role of official or permanent institutions, even though the Wali Nanggroe institution has a strong legal basis, as stipulated in Law Number 11 concerning the Governance of Aceh.
Some also criticize the institution for its excessive budget, including its luxurious building, which is too large and disproportionate to its role in the Acehnese people, and its work, which is considered to be limited to traveling to various cities in Indonesia and even other countries.
Despite the criticism and pros and cons of the Wali Nanggroe institution, the Wali Nanggroe itself, currently held by Tgk Malik Mahmud, continues to hold various meetings with various parties. Most recently, with the UAE Ambassador.
Wali Nanggroe Aceh His Excellency Tgk. Malik Mahmud Al Haythar hosted the Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to Indonesia, H.E. Abdullah Salem Aldhaheri, at a dinner at Meuligoe Wali Nanggroe, Banda Aceh, on Sunday evening, October 26, 2025.
The meeting also discussed follow-up cooperation and investment potential in Aceh, particularly in the oil and gas and agriculture sectors.
Ambassador Abdullah Salem Aldhaheri expressed his appreciation for the welcome given by Wali Nanggroe. He considered the meeting very positive and an important step in strengthening relations between the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia, and Aceh.
"Our meeting with Wali Nanggroe went very well. We discussed many areas of cooperation, including oil and gas and agriculture. We are confident that the relationship between the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia, and Aceh will continue to move in a positive direction," said the UAE Ambassador.
He added that this good relationship is expected to bring added value to the people of Aceh and create more job opportunities in the future.
Meanwhile, Wali Nanggroe, accompanied by Special Staff Dr. Muhammad Raviq, stated that the meeting reflected a shared commitment to building a more prosperous future for Aceh and strengthening economic and investment ties between Aceh and the United Arab Emirates.[]
