Indonesia as America’s Compass Rose in a Multipolar World

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ABSTRACT

The United States has pursued global liberal hegemony for 30 years. This effort aimed to reshape the world by American values. Yet, it has increasingly faltered due to rising multipolarity. This essay explores Indonesia’s potential to serve as America’s “compass rose,” linking the U.S. to the Indo-Pacific multipolar landscape. Indonesia serves as a tutor and guide. It bridges American Western thought, which often emphasizes individual freedom. Indonesia connects this with Eastern cyclical thought that prioritizes collective stability through cooperation. Indonesia is the largest economy in Southeast Asia. As a new member of BRICS, it embodies the principles of non-alignment and regional collaboration. It offers critical insights for navigating the complexities of a multipolar world. The United States can learn from Indonesia’s diplomatic strategies. It can also gain from Indonesia’s cultural understanding and commitment to regional stability. This knowledge allows the United States to change from a hegemony-focused approach. It can shift to one that emphasizes genuine partnerships and mutual respect. This shift fosters economic growth and democratic values in the Indo-Pacific region. It also promotes stability and opens up new avenues for global cooperation and understanding. Ultimately, the essay argues for reevaluating U.S. strategies prioritizing Indonesia’s central role. This enables America to engage effectively in a multipolar world. It fosters cooperative relationships that align with shared regional aspirations.

America’s 30-year pursuit of global hegemony is faltering as geopolitical dynamics increasingly show national interests and multipolarity reemerges. American efforts to contain China within its own neighborhood have proven futile in this evolving landscape. This highlights the need for the United States to focus on its national interests. It also needs to create a distinct position within this emerging multipolarity. By considering non-hegemonic alternatives and focusing on its independence, the U.S. can leverage Indonesia’s pivotal role as the “compass rose” of the Indo-Pacific. This partnership is not just a strategic move. It is a necessity to help ease stability and prosperity in the region. It helps America transition from a North American focus. It also shifts to a more integrated approach with Indonesia and the broader Indo-Pacific. This fosters peaceful relations and contributes to a balanced global multipolar order.

Indonesia is at the crossroads of the Indo-Pacific. It serves as a beacon of hope for stability. It fosters cooperation amid turbulent geopolitical tensions. As the “compass rose,” Indonesia played a crucial role in regional geopolitics and economic dynamics. Indonesia can foster stability and sustainable growth by leveraging its strategic geographic position and maintaining a neutral political stance. Collaboration with the United States and ASEAN will allow Indonesia to navigate the complexities of a multipolar world effectively.

The world is transitioning from a brief era of globalization to a more complex geopolitical landscape characterized by multipolarity. This shift places Indonesia at the forefront, making it a critical player in this evolving environment. As the region embraces this natural multipolarity, the United States has a unique opportunity. It can align itself not as a hostile force seeking containment. Instead, it can be a cooperative partner. By fostering collaboration with Indonesia, the U.S. can effectively integrate itself into the dynamic fabric of the Indo-Pacific. This integration enables mutual growth and stability. It also respects the diverse interests of the region.

Indonesia is a vital “compass rose” for the Indo-Pacific region in today’s intricate international landscape. Its strategic location makes it a central reference point for neighboring countries. It guides navigation and fosters connections across Southeast Asia and Oceania. Recognized for being both secular and democratic, Indonesia has experienced some democratic backsliding in recent years. Despite being courted by China and the United States, Indonesia maintains a non-aligned stance. This unique position enhances its significance in the evolving geopolitical landscape. As Indonesia joins BRICS, it underscores its role in a multipolar world that U.S. policymakers must acknowledge.

THE U.S. AND ITS CLAIMS

THE U.S. AND INDONESIA: A NEED FOR RECOGNITION

KEY POINTS

1. REASSESSING IDENTITY: The U.S. must embrace its North American roots while recognizing Indonesia’s significance. Acknowledging Indonesia’s role in the Indo-Pacific enhances American credibility and aligns with the evolving geopolitical landscape. For instance, fostering cultural exchange programs, like the Fulbright Program, can deepen understanding and cooperation between the two nations.
2. INDONESIA’S PIVOTAL ROLE: Indonesia is the largest economy in Southeast Asia. As a new BRICS member, it plays a crucial role in regional and global affairs. Its inclusion in BRICS highlights its rising power. It is strategically important in promoting a multipolar world. In this world, influence is shared rather than dominated by one. For instance, BRICS membership enables Indonesia to support fair trade practices. These practices help developing nations. They include fair access to technology and resources.
3. RESOURCE NATIONALISM: Recently, Indonesia banned nickel exports to attract investors and boost domestic manufacturing. This policy reflects resource nationalism, which refers to efforts by countries to control their natural resources for national advantage. The ban aims to enhance local processing and create jobs. It asserts Indonesia’s economic sovereignty. This move makes Indonesia a key player in the global economy, particularly in the electric vehicle supply chain. Yet, this policy could lead to tensions with countries reliant on Indonesian resources, emphasizing the need for careful diplomatic engagement.

U.S. FOREIGN POLICY: THE NEED FOR GENUINE COOPERATION

5. IMPLICATIONS OF BRICS MEMBERSHIP: Indonesia’s entry into BRICS signals a significant shift toward a multipolar world. This shift necessitates a reassessment of U.S. strategies. Embracing a cooperative framework allows the U.S. to engage meaningfully without attempting to dictate terms. Indonesia sees its BRICS membership as a strategic step. This step aims to enhance collaboration with other developing nations. It is based on equality, mutual respect, and sustainable development. The U.S. must recognize this shift. It must adapt its policies suitably. This demonstrates the importance of flexibility and adaptability in the ever-changing landscape of international relations.
6. REJECTING OUTDATED CONTAINMENT STRATEGIES: Effective engagement in the Indo-Pacific requires the U.S. to abandon outdated containment approaches. The pursuit of hegemony can breed hostility in a region with a rich history of cooperation. The Western “them or us” mentality exacerbates tensions and undermines collective stability. A more inclusive approach that respects the sovereignty of nations will foster a healthier geopolitical climate.

AMERICA’S HINGE INTO THE EASTERN WAY: THE ROLE OF INDONESIA

As the world transitions to multipolarity, the United States faces the challenge of adapting to a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape. Indonesia is essential for America to connect with Eastern ways of thinking. It helps America operate in this new world order.

1. STRATEGIC LOCATION: Indonesia’s geographical position makes it a central player in the Indo-Pacific, facilitating access to Asia and the Pacific. Engaging with Indonesia allows the U.S. to navigate the complexities of Eastern geopolitics effectively.
2. CULTURAL AND HISTORICAL TIES: Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage reflects a blend of indigenous, Islamic, and colonial influences. This provides a unique perspective that contrasts with Western paradigms. By understanding these nuances, the U.S. can foster goodwill. They can also promote collaboration through cultural diplomacy initiatives. These include art exchanges and educational programs focused on Indonesian culture.
3. NON-ALIGNED LEADERSHIP: Indonesia’s commitment to non-alignment offers the U.S. an opportunity to engage with a nation that seeks to balance relationships with both Western and Eastern powers. This non-aligned stance enhances the U.S.’s credibility in the region, allowing for more meaningful partnerships.
4. SHARED INTERESTS IN REGIONAL STABILITY: The U.S. and Indonesia share interests in promoting regional stability. Indonesia’s leadership can complement U.S. efforts to uphold peace amid rising tensions, like maritime disputes in the South China Sea.
5. ECONOMIC COOPERATION AND RESOURCE NATIONALISM: Indonesia’s focus on resource nationalism aligns with U.S. interests in fostering mutually beneficial trade relationships. By investing in Indonesia’s economic development, particularly in sustainable industries like fisheries and renewable energy, the U.S. can tap into a growing market while supporting Indonesia’s efforts to enhance its financial independence.
6. EMBRACING MULTIPOLARITY: The U.S. must recognize that no single nation can dictate global engagement. By positioning Indonesia as a key partner, the U.S. can enhance its standing in the region. It can adapt to the realities of a world where power is shared among multiple actors.

INDONESIA AS A COMPASS FOR POLITICAL COURSE

Indonesia serves as a compass for the region’s political course for several reasons:

1. DIPLOMATIC LEADERSHIP: Indonesia is a founding member of ASEAN. It plays a crucial role in shaping the political agenda. Indonesia fosters cooperation among member states. Its leadership can guide collective responses to regional challenges, promoting unity and collaboration.
2. NON-ALIGNED FOREIGN POLICY: Indonesia’s commitment to non-alignment allows it to keep balanced relationships with significant powers. It can also act as a neutral intermediary. This promotes regional autonomy, encouraging smaller nations to assert their interests without reliance on any single power.
3. REGIONAL STABILITY AND SECURITY: Indonesia’s commitment to peace positions it as a stabilizing force. Its participation in security initiatives helps solve common threats, shaping a secure political environment in the Indo-Pacific.
4. PROMOTING DEMOCRATIC VALUES: Indonesia is the largest democracy in Southeast Asia. It serves as an example of democratic governance. This inspires other nations to pursue reforms. Its vibrant civil society fosters political accountability and civic engagement.
5. CULTURAL DIPLOMACY: Indonesia’s cultural diversity allows it to engage with other nations through cultural diplomacy. This strengthens political ties and promotes regional goodwill.

INDONESIA’S PERSPECTIVES ON TRADE AND ECONOMIC ISSUES

Indonesia’s perspectives on trade and economic issues are rooted in the “Indo-Pacific,” emphasizing Asia-Pacific and Indian Ocean states. As a maritime nation, Indonesia aims to use the “Indo-Pacific” framing to enhance its centrality within ASEAN. Its strategic geographical position, particularly the Malacca Strait, underscores its importance in connecting the Indian and Pacific Oceans.

Indonesia is the largest country in Southeast Asia. It plays a vital role in the region’s geopolitical economy. Yet, it is not yet classified as a high-income country. Despite its potential, Indonesia’s integration into ASEAN production networks remains weak. The government is an emerging economy with significant potential. Yet, its manufacturing sector has faced challenges. A decline in value-added manufacturing since 2002 has negatively affected its economic growth.

To revitalize its economy, Indonesia seeks to enhance its manufacturing sector. It aims to achieve this through international trade and investment. The focus is particularly on improving its backward linkages in global value chains. A neutral political-economic relationship with major powers like the United States and China is essential for preserving Indonesia’s economic benefits. Indonesia has signed many bilateral economic agreements. It has also participated in regional initiatives like the RCEP. These steps are to strengthen its trade and investment networks.

The maritime economy is a primary focus for Indonesia’s economic transformation, with significant potential for growth in maritime-related sectors. The principle of neutrality is critical for ASEAN. It fosters peaceful economic relations with major powers that align with the group’s values.

In the context of regional economic integration, Indonesia believes that ASEAN should focus on economic convergence. This will help achieve mutual benefits and ensure sustainable prosperity. This perspective emphasizes the importance of open regionalism and collaboration within the ASEAN and ASEAN Plus frameworks.

INDONESIA AS A BRIDGE IN SECURING A CHINA-TAIWAN SOLUTION

Indonesia can also serve as a bridge in securing a resolution to the China-Taiwan situation for several reasons:

1. NEUTRAL STANCE: Indonesia’s non-aligned foreign policy allows it to act as a neutral mediator, facilitating dialogue between China and Taiwan. This neutrality encourages both sides to engage in discussions without fear of bias.
2. DIPLOMATIC RELATIONSHIPS: Indonesia has established diplomatic relations with China. It also maintains unofficial ties with Taiwan. This unique position allows Indonesia to engage with both parties. The country can advocate for peaceful discussions.
3. ASEAN LEADERSHIP: As a leading member of ASEAN, Indonesia holds significant influence in regional geopolitics. It can use this position to promote stability and cooperative engagement among member states. This influence may also extend to the China-Taiwan issue.
4. ECONOMIC COLLABORATION: Indonesia’s economic relationships with China and Taiwan serve as a foundation for dialogue. By emphasizing mutual economic interests, Indonesia can help both sides recognize the benefits of cooperation over conflict.
5. MARITIME SECURITY: Indonesia’s geographical position in the Indo-Pacific allows it to play a vital role in maritime security. This role is critical for China and Taiwan. Promoting stability in the South China Sea can contribute to a more peaceful regional environment that supports diplomatic efforts.
6. CULTURAL DIPLOMACY: Indonesia’s diverse cultural landscape can assist connections between China and Taiwan. Cultural exchanges help build mutual understanding and trust, paving the way for more formal diplomatic negotiations.

EMBRACING A NORTH AMERICAN IDENTITY

Instead of insisting on being an “Indo-Pacific nation,” the U.S. should embrace its North American identity while actively engaging with Indonesia for authentic cooperation. Building partnerships that respect the strengths of Indo-Pacific nations will contribute to a more stable and prosperous region.

CONCLUSION

It is time for the U.S. to reevaluate its identity and claim to be an “Indo-Pacific nation.” The U.S. can foster genuine cooperation by returning to its North American roots and actively engaging with Indonesia. Recognizing Indonesia’s pivotal role as a hinge to the Indo-Pacific will bolster America’s position in a multipolar world. This recognition allows for collaboration that promotes regional stability. It also encourages collective progress. U.S. policymakers must prioritize partnerships with Indonesia. These partnerships will create a more inclusive and cooperative international framework. This framework should embrace the complexities of global interdependence.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Tom Raquer is a retired U.S. Air Force Southeast Asia Foreign Area Officer. He has lived and worked in Thailand, Vietnam, Korea, the Philippines, Indonesia, Singapore, and Timor-Leste. Furthermore, Tom served as a Southeast Asia Political/Military Officer at the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM).

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