This article will discuss the strategic issues faced by Indonesia regarding the controversies in the South China Sea. As the largest archipelagic country in the world, Indonesia has significant national interests in maintaining the stability and sovereignty of its maritime territory. The South China Sea is not only a vital international trade route but also an area rich in natural resources, including oil and gas. With the rising tensions among countries claiming territory in the South China Sea, including China, Vietnam, and the Philippines, Indonesia needs to formulate effective defense strategies to protect its national interests.
The disputes in the South China Sea involve various countries with conflicting claims. Countries like China, Vietnam, and the Philippines have strong interests in the islands and waters in this region. Although Indonesia does not directly claim any part of the South China Sea, it remains affected by the existing dynamics, especially concerning Natuna and the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) that borders directly with the contested areas. Tensions have increased due to exploration and fishing activities conducted by certain countries, often perceived as threats to Indonesia’s sovereignty.
To address these challenges, the Indonesian government has adopted several comprehensive defense strategies. One of them emphasizes multilateral diplomacy. Indonesia is committed to resolving disputes through diplomatic channels, particularly as a member of ASEAN. Jakarta has encouraged peaceful resolutions and negotiations among the involved countries and promoted the application of international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Through this approach, Indonesia aims to create a constructive dialogue space and reduce tensions in the region.
Enhancing military presence has also become a key focus of Indonesia’s defense strategy. The country has modernized its navy by strengthening its fleet and increasing patrol intensity in Natuna waters. This step aims not only to uphold territorial sovereignty but also to act as a deterrent against countries that may take aggressive actions. Joint military exercises with friendly countries are also conducted to demonstrate Indonesia’s commitment to maritime security.
Sustainable management of natural resources is another major concern in Indonesia’s defense strategy. The government aims to ensure that natural resources in the South China Sea are managed wisely and are not threatened by unilateral actions from other countries. International cooperation in exploration and resource management is crucial, particularly in the context of sustainability and environmental protection. Strict law enforcement against illegal activities, such as unauthorized fishing, is also part of this strategy.
Moreover, increasing public awareness and participation is vital in supporting defense strategies. The Indonesian government has educated the public about the importance of the South China Sea and its implications for national sovereignty. High awareness among citizens is expected to bolster support for government policies. Effective information campaigns and educational programs can help the public understand maritime issues and their role in safeguarding national sovereignty.
International and regional cooperation is another important element in Indonesia’s defense strategy. In addition to focusing on bilateral diplomacy, Indonesia needs to strengthen cooperation with other countries in the region, such as India and Japan, which also have interests in the South China Sea. Through this cooperation, Indonesia can create stronger alliances to respond to various emerging security challenges. This cooperation could take the form of joint military exercises, intelligence sharing, and collaboration in resource management.
In this context, the author understands that Indonesia must adopt a holistic and sustainable approach. The defense strategies implemented must be able to address the complexities of the issues in the South China Sea. The author will focus on three main arguments: first, the importance of strong diplomacy to resolve disputes peacefully; second, the readiness of competent defense to protect sovereignty; and third, public awareness and community participation in supporting government policies.
From the author’s perspective, these three aspects are highly interconnected and are key to Indonesia’s success in facing challenges in the South China Sea. Effective diplomacy will create space for dialogue and conflict resolution, while military preparedness will provide assurance that Indonesia can uphold its territorial sovereignty. Public awareness, on the other hand, will strengthen the legitimacy of government policies and encourage citizens to actively contribute to safeguarding maritime sovereignty.
By focusing on these three aspects, the author argues that Indonesia can face challenges in the South China Sea more effectively, maintain sovereignty, and strengthen its position on the international stage. This integrated approach is expected to yield policies that are not only responsive to current situations but also proactive in preventing future conflicts. Thus, Indonesia can ensure security and stability in this crucial region, which in turn will support economic growth and the welfare of its people.
The three arguments presented— the importance of strong diplomacy, competent defense readiness, and public awareness and participation— demonstrate the author’s view that Indonesia needs to adopt a holistic and sustainable approach in facing controversies in the South China Sea. By integrating these three aspects, Indonesia can not only maintain its territorial sovereignty but also actively contribute to creating stability and security in the region. This coordinated approach is expected to produce responsive and proactive policies that will support Indonesia’s national interests amid complex geopolitical dynamics.
