Navigating Indonesia’s Neutrality in ASEAN
- Guskamla Koarmada I
Jakarta, VIVA – Indonesia's decision to issue a joint statement with China during President Prabowo Subianto's visit to Beijing in November 2024 has drawn mixed reactions.
Experts agree the move is understandable, provided Indonesia firmly adheres to international maritime law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
This sentiment was echoed during a seminar titled “Indonesia-China Relations Post-Joint Statement: Diplomacy and Security Perspectives,” held on January 23, 2025, in Jakarta by the Indonesian Maritime Security Initiative (Indomasive).
Moderated by China specialist Muhammad Farid, S.S., M.P.A., the discussion featured notable speakers, including Major General (Ret.) Dr. Pujo Widodo, Colonel (Navy) Dr. Panji Suwarno, and Dr. Johanes Herlijanto, Chair of the Indonesian Sinology Forum.
Major General Pujo Widodo highlighted the growing geopolitical tensions in 2025, citing increased competition between China and the United States and the potential for a Chinese incursion into Taiwan.
“Indonesia skillfully navigates its relations between the West and China,” said Widodo, emphasizing Indonesia's balance of military exercises with the U.S. and economic cooperation with China.
However, Widodo also noted domestic concerns about China’s intentions regarding Indonesia’s resource-rich waters. “We must strengthen the Navy’s presence in vulnerable regions to prevent any encroachments,” he urged.
Colonel Panji Suwarno warned against potential misuse of the joint statement by China. “We must be cautious if China uses this to create the perception that Indonesia is pro-China,” he stressed.
Suwarno recommended bolstering maritime security and maintaining Indonesia’s neutrality, particularly in disputes involving the North Natuna Sea.
Dr. Johanes Herlijanto emphasized the importance of sovereignty, not just as territorial control but as national autonomy. “Adhering to UNCLOS and maintaining neutrality are crucial to safeguarding Indonesia’s strategic position in ASEAN and preventing any erosion of its maritime security,” he said.
Director of Indomasive Fauzan Aminullah echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that Indonesia must firmly reject China’s claims over its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and take proactive steps to prevent illegal activities in the region.
