A Bond Strengthened by Time
The term ‘teman sejati’ (true friend) perfectly encapsulates the enduring bond between Japan and Indonesia. In 2023, this relationship shone brightly as three stars of friendship illuminated the Japan-Indonesia relations, casting their radiant glow on the annals of history.
First Star: A Historical Milestone between Indonesia and Japan
The 65th anniversary of the establishment of the diplomatic the relations between Japan and Indonesia marked a significant chapter in our shared history. Over six and a half decades, Japan and Indonesia have evolved from navigating complex historical ties to fostering a profound, heart-to-heart connection.
The ASEAN-Japan Centre (AJC), established in 1981 by the ASEAN Member States and Japan, plays a pivotal role in fostering relations between the regions across various domains including trade, investment, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges. In the memorial year, the AJC was particularly active, organizing several key events. Among these was a series of investment forums in Japan, focused on updating Nusantara new capital project and presenting business and investment opportunities in diverse sectors beyond Java Island. These forums aimed to broaden the scope of economic engagement and attract Japanese investment into less explored regions of Indonesia.
The ASEAN-Japan Centre (AJC), established in 1981 by the ASEAN Member States and Japan, plays a pivotal role in fostering relations between the regions across various domains including trade, investment, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges.
Kunihiko Hirabayashi, Secretary General of ASEAN-Japan Centre
Second Star: Strengthening ASEAN Regional Cooperation
As the ASEAN Chair, Indonesia spearheaded significant regional collaboration initiatives, receiving robust support from Japan. This collaboration was especially evident in its commitment to ASEAN centrality and unity, vital for regional stability and prosperity.
AJC engaged in a crucial role in promoting the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) in Japan, mobilizing youth in the ASEAN-Japan region for marine sustainability projects, and enhancing industrial-academic-government dialogues.
Third Star: Fifty Years of Friendship between ASEAN and Japan
The 50th year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation not only commemorated half a century of partnership but also set the stage for future collaboration.
The AJC was instrumental in organizing events that highlighted the evolving dynamics of our relationship, focusing on engaging young people and businesses in sectors of trade, investment, and tourism.
A Personal Honor and a Vision for the Future
In November 2023, I was humbled to receive the Ambassador Award by His Excellency Hei Akhmadi in recognition of the AJC’s contributions to the diplomatic and economic ties between our nations. On the evening of the awards ceremony, Mr. Perry Warjiyo, the Governor of the Central Bank of Indonesia, who was visiting Japan, gifted me a traditional jacket adorned with motifs from the indigenous peoples of North Sulawesi in Indonesia. I was told that wearing this jacket signifies a commitment to overcome differences in perspective and to achieve common goals. This honour reinforces my and AJC’s mission to further deepen our ‘heart-to-heart’ relationship and strive towards a peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous future for ASEAN and Japan.
Looking Ahead
The two countries’ bond has been tested and strengthened through joint challenges such as the Asian financial crisis, the devastating Indian Ocean tsunami, and the recent global pandemic. My personal journey as a medical doctor in Makassar during the tumultuous years of 1997 to 1999 mirrors this resilient relationship. Despite severe hardships, the spirit of camaraderie and generosity prevailed, reflecting the true essence of Indonesia.
As we look forward to the next decade, we remain committed to nurturing and deepening this partnership. By fostering not only cooperation but also a profound, empathetic connection, Japan and Indonesia are well-positioned to address regional and global challenges. Together, we aim to showcase the strength and resilience of enduring partnerships, which continue to transcend crises and forge lasting bonds, paving the way for a peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous future.
