RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Japan is stepping up its security cooperation with Indonesia by expanding defense assistance and strategic dialogue, as part of broader efforts to strengthen bilateral ties, Japanese officials said on Thursday, February 5, 2026.

Speaking at a reception in Jakarta marking the birthday of Emperor Naruhito, Japan’s Charge d’Affaires ad interim to Indonesia, Myochin Mitsuru, said Tokyo is currently focused on deepening cooperation with Indonesia on security issues, alongside its long-standing economic partnership.

“We are strengthening the relationship between Japan and Indonesia in the field of security,” Mitsuru said, as quoted by Antara.

He revealed that Japan has recently signed an official security assistance project with the Indonesian Ministry of Defense. Under the agreement, Japan will provide high-speed patrol vessels for the Indonesian Navy.

According to Mitsuru, the initiative reflects Japan’s intention to balance economic engagement with closer security collaboration. “It is not only about the economy. Security cooperation is equally important,” he said.

Beyond defense ties, Japan remains a major economic partner for Indonesia. Mitsuru highlighted Japan’s support through its Official Development Assistance (ODA), including financing for the Jakarta Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system. Japanese investment has also flowed into ports, power plants, and other infrastructure projects across the country.

Looking ahead, Mitsuru pointed to the potential for future cooperation in emerging sectors such as semiconductors and artificial intelligence (AI). However, he stressed that discussions in these areas are still at an early stage.

“Rather than immediate private-sector investment, this is a phase for government-to-government discussions,” he added.

The reception was also attended by Japan’s Ambassador to ASEAN Yonetani Koji and Indonesian Minister of Trade Budi Santoso. ***