Prabowo’s diplomatic maneuvers ahead of his inauguration reflect a broader strategy to cement Indonesia’s position as a key player in regional and global affairs. His meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Japanese Prime Minister Kishida, and Malaysian Prime Minister Ibrahim signal a desire to maintain and expand Indonesia’s partnerships with these influential nations. By prioritizing regional relationships, Prabowo is reinforcing Indonesia’s role as a leader in Southeast Asia and a bridge between larger powers.

The warm reception Prabowo received during these visits highlights the international community’s willingness to engage with Indonesia’s next administration. This positive response suggests that the transition from President Widodo’s leadership to Prabowo’s administration will be met with continuity rather than disruption in diplomatic relations.

At the same time, these diplomatic efforts are an opportunity for Prabowo to address pressing global and regional challenges. For instance, Indonesia’s engagement with China will require careful navigation of contentious issues such as territorial disputes and labor dynamics. Similarly, its role as a mediator between Japan and China could enhance Indonesia’s reputation as a stabilizing force in the Indo-Pacific region.

The focus on Asia does not preclude the importance of relations with other regions. Prabowo and Gibran’s administration is likely to extend its diplomatic outreach to Europe and the United States after their official inauguration. These efforts will aim to balance Indonesia’s relationships with Western powers while maintaining its commitment to non-alignment and sovereignty in foreign policy.

Domestic Implications of Diplomatic Priorities

While Prabowo’s diplomatic moves are primarily aimed at strengthening international ties, they also carry significant domestic implications. Maintaining robust economic partnerships with countries like China and Japan can support Indonesia’s development goals, particularly in infrastructure and defense. At the same time, addressing issues such as the protection of migrant workers in Malaysia reflects a commitment to safeguarding the interests of Indonesian citizens abroad.