JI’s decision to disband is for real
Analysis, SecurityIt was not some snap decision, easily reversed. It was the result of a nearly 15-year reconsideration of ends and means.
Indonesia’s TNI law revision: the continued rise of military politics
Politics, SecurityAs President Joko Widodo's administration comes to an end, the government is once again considering revising the Indonesian National Military (TNI) Law. These developments have led to fresh questions about the government’s commitment to pursuing its security sector reform agenda.
Talking Indonesia: food security
Economy, SecurityIn 2023 an EL Niño weather pattern across Indonesia made it the hottest year on record, leading to drought conditions and impacting rice production, with delayed harvests and low yields. Since late last year rice prices have continued to climb. In this episode of Talking Indonesia Jemma Purdey chats with Associate Professor Jamie Davidson, leader of the Cluster ‘Food Politics and Society' at the National University of Singapore, about the current state of food production and food security in Indonesia.
Indonesia as ASEAN chair – not rocking the boat in 2023
Foreign Policy, SecurityWhen Indonesia took over the rotating chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in January 2023, the organisation was in need of strong leadership. Ultimately, Jakarta failed to offer much-needed leadership on new norms and principles to maintain ASEAN’s unity and relevance. But it did secure several tangible deliverables during its time as chair.
Talking Indonesia: pathways to extremism
Religion, SecurityIn the post-Soeharto era, terrorist acts have drawn attention through a handful of small, but committed, jihadist organisations conducting targeted bombings. In this week's episode, Elisabeth Kramer chats with guest Dr Julie Chernov Hwang about how social networks facilitate entry into and exit from jihadist groups in Southeast Asia.
Jokowi’s China visit - new deals, old problems
Economy, Foreign Policy, SecurityIndonesia President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo completed his sixth official visit to China last week. The recent Chengdu visit serves as a reminder of just how far Indonesia-China relations have come under the ten years of the Indonesia-China Comprehensive Economic Partnership and Jokowi’s tenure as President.
Is West Sumatra on the verge of an intolerance and violent extremism crisis?
Law, Religion, SecurityThere are indications of growing intolerance and violent extremism in West Sumatra. A new law could make matters worse.
Talking Indonesia: Indonesia and AUKUS
Foreign Policy, Security, Talking IndonesiaWhat underpins Indonesia’s negative response to AUKUS? Dr Dave McRae explores this question and more with Dr Ahmad Rizky M Umar in the first episode of Talking Indonesia for 2023.
Can Indonesia ever put an end to police violence?
Politics, SecurityWhile recent high-profile cases have focused public attention on police violence, the sad reality is that repressive police actions routinely result in Indonesians losing their lives.