Indonesia Balances Tides in the South China Sea

Indonesia continues to navigate the complex waters of international relations, emphasizing its commitment to an independent and active foreign policy. Jakarta is not aligning itself more closely with Beijing at the expense of its Western alliances. Instead, it showcases its ability to foster cooperation with both China and the United States, reflecting its strategic position in Southeast Asia. Maritime cooperation emerges as a focal point in this diplomatic dance, particularly between coastguards, as it builds trust and facilitates communication.

Aristyo Darmawan, a lecturer in international law at Universitas Indonesia, underscores the importance of maritime cooperation. He highlights that such collaboration is crucial for stability "whenever a crisis happens." This cooperation, however, must tread carefully to avoid areas of overlapping claims, which could lead to ambiguity and potential conflict. By focusing on non-contentious areas, Indonesia aims to maintain its sovereignty while engaging constructively with major powers.

Abdul Rahman Yaacob, a research fellow at the Lowy Institute's Southeast Asia programme, supports this view. The Lowy Institute, an Australian-based think tank, recognizes Southeast Asia's strategic importance and Indonesia's pivotal role within it. Jakarta's foreign policy is meticulously crafted around its national interests, ensuring that relations with major powers are balanced and beneficial.

Indonesia's principle of "bebas dan aktif" or independent and active foreign policy allows it to engage effectively with both Beijing and Washington. This approach is not a shift away from the West but rather an assertion of Indonesia's autonomy on the global stage. By fostering maritime cooperation and maintaining diplomatic ties with both superpowers, Indonesia reinforces its status as a key player in Southeast Asia.

This nuanced strategy forms part of Indonesia's broader foreign policy framework. Cooperation with China aligns with Indonesia's strategic interests, while parallel collaborations with the United States ensure diversified international partnerships. Indonesia's adept handling of foreign relations demonstrates its commitment to safeguarding national interests while contributing to regional stability.