Recent reports of China’s latest intrusion into Indonesian waters near the Natuna Islands have drawn attention as Indonesian navy and coast guard vessels confronted the situation. This incident is seen as a test of the new Indonesian government led by Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto, but it could also indicate a shift in Indonesia’s approach toward China.
Throughout former President Joko Widodo’s tenure, Chinese vessels regularly entered these waters, often without significant pushback from Indonesia. In the past, the Indonesian government took a hard stance, evidenced by a 2016 incident when an Indonesian navy ship fired upon a Chinese fishing boat, resulting in injuries and the subsequent sinking of seized Chinese vessels to deter illegal fishing.
However, Indonesia adopted a quieter strategy during the latter part of Widodo’s presidency, possibly aiming to avoid escalating tensions or to attract investments and enhance economic ties with Beijing.
Despite this quieter approach, China maintained its presence around the Natunas with little public acknowledgment from Indonesia of any confrontations.
The attention surrounding the latest incident may suggest a different course under Prabowo’s leadership. Although he served as defense minister under Widodo and is familiar with the previous strategy, the Indonesian Coast Guard’s prompt release of a video detailing the confrontation with a Chinese vessel signifies a departure from the earlier quiet diplomacy. This move could represent a shift toward a more assertive transparency, similar to actions taken by the Philippines regarding maritime tensions.
Nonetheless, this does not indicate a complete break with China. Following the incident, Indonesia’s new defense minister met with China’s ambassador in Jakarta to discuss a planned joint military exercise.
Prabowo appears to be positioning Indonesia as a cooperative partner to China while asserting its sovereignty when necessary.
Credit: CNA
