Indonesia Pushes for Greater Role in ASEAN Amidst Global Power Rivalry

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta – The Indonesia's government believes it is necessary to assume a more active role as a strategic driver and connector within ASEAN to ensure the regional organization remains relevant amidst the rivalry between major global powers. This call was made during an ASEAN dialogue titled "Revitalizing Indonesia's Role in ASEAN," organized by the Research Center for Politics at the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) in Jakarta on Monday, August 10, 2026.

Athiqah Nur Alami, Head of the Research Center for Politics at BRIN, stated that Indonesia can no longer afford to be merely a passive participant in the regional organization. She emphasized that Indonesia must step up to shape the organization's direction and unify the visions of ASEAN member states.

Senior BRIN researcher, Dewi Fortuna Anwar, explained that strengthening this role is crucial, and not simply a reaction to short-term crises. She stressed the need for Indonesia to be more deeply involved in shaping ASEAN's ideas and foundational rules, including the possibility of reviewing the ASEAN Charter, which governs the organization's decision-making mechanisms.

He highlighted the need for a shift in Indonesia's diplomatic leadership style, moving from a stance of pushing from behind to one of actively standing at the center and inspiring neighboring countries. This shift is deemed necessary given the complexity of geopolitical issues and the expansion of ASEAN's membership in recent years.

As a testament to its diplomatic track record, Indonesia has previously initiated key concepts for the region, such as the principles of a nuclear-weapon-free and neutral zone, as well as the concept of ASEAN's engagement with the Indo-Pacific region. Officials believe these ideas now need to be recalibrated to align with the current global landscape.

Ina Hagniningtyas Krisnamurthi, Director General for ASEAN Cooperation at the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, outlined several concrete steps Indonesia has taken, including establishing a regional economic cooperation group and advocating for a joint ASEAN coast guard forum. Indonesia also played a role in supporting Turkey's admission as a new ASEAN dialogue partner, thereby expanding the organization's network of cooperation with the wider world.

They agreed that strengthening Indonesia's role in ASEAN cannot rely solely on the government but requires the concerted involvement of academics, research institutions, and civil society. This collective effort is considered crucial for enabling Indonesia to lead the region toward the ambitious goals of ASEAN Vision 2045.