Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad has thanked Indonesian President Joko Widodo with regard to the arrest of Sungai Besar Umno division leader Jamal Md Yunos, according to Indonesian media.

Kompas.com said the appreciation was conveyed via a letter dated July 3.

“I am confident this cooperation is premised on our long-standing relationship as neighbouring countries.

“It is hoped that the closeness we have achieved in all sectors will serve as an example to the citizens of both nations,” said Mahathir in the letter.

Jamal was arrested by the Indonesian police on July 2 and was deported to Malaysia yesterday.

Malaysian police launched a manhunt for the firebrand Umno man after he was found missing from his ward at the Ampang Puteri Specialist Hospital on May 25.

An arrest warrant for him was issued on June 1 for the offence of escaping or resisting police custody.

Jamal, who was charged in court yesterday, was denied bail and sent to the Sungai Buloh prison pending his trial.

Even after fleeing, Jamal continued to post video recordings on social media, in which he claimed to be persecuted by the Pakatan Harapan government.

He had also offered himself for the Umno Youth chief post. He also retained his position as Sungai Besar Umno chief.