The rhythmic chanting and intricate movements of the Indang Dance, showcased at the 2026 National Multicultural Festival in Canberra, represent more than just a cultural performance. It’s a carefully calibrated element within Indonesia’s evolving strategy to bolster its regional influence, particularly as geopolitical tensions intensify across the Indo-Pacific. The proliferation of Indonesian brands and cultural offerings, alongside diplomatic initiatives, underscores a deliberate effort to establish a multifaceted presence – a strategy crucial for maintaining stability in a region grappling with shifting alliances and growing strategic competition. Indonesia’s approach, largely unheralded in Western media, highlights the potent power of soft power in navigating complex international relations.
The significance of Indonesia’s engagement cannot be overstated. As the world’s largest Muslim-majority nation, Indonesia’s position within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) holds considerable weight. Recent shifts in the Indo-Pacific – the increasing assertiveness of China, the evolving role of the United States, and the escalating naval presence of nations like Australia and India – necessitate a nuanced diplomatic approach. Indonesia’s strategy reflects a desire to maintain a position of neutrality while simultaneously strengthening its economic and security ties with key partners. The festival itself serves as a microcosm of this effort, showcasing Indonesia's ambition to be a prominent player in the region's cultural and economic landscape.
Historical context illuminates the strategic underpinnings of this activity. The Dutch colonial period profoundly shaped Indonesian geopolitical thinking, fostering a tradition of cautious diplomacy and a recognition of the value of maintaining relationships with powerful external actors. The post-independence era saw Indonesia initially embracing a non-aligned foreign policy, shifting towards a more strategic alignment with the United States during the Cold War. More recently, under President Wiratman’s administration, Indonesia has adopted a policy of “free and active” foreign policy, prioritizing economic engagement and multilateralism while simultaneously bolstering its military capabilities. This current emphasis on cultural diplomacy is a natural extension of this broader strategy, designed to foster goodwill and build a network of influence.
Stakeholders involved extend far beyond the Embassy of Indonesia in Canberra. The Australian government, seeking to diversify its diplomatic portfolio and solidify its ties with a key ASEAN member, actively supports these initiatives. The Australia Indonesia Association (AIA), through its language courses and community outreach programs, facilitates direct engagement between the Indonesian diaspora and the broader Australian population. Indonesian consumer brands – Aslan Coffee Roasters, Malkist Roma, Supercorn, Hydro Coco, Indocafe Cappucino, and Beng Beng – represent a critical element, extending Indonesia’s commercial reach and subtly promoting Indonesian products and lifestyle to a new audience. According to Dr. Anya Sharma, Senior Analyst at the Lowy Institute, “Indonesia's focus on expanding its economic footprint through strategic alliances and cultural promotion is a calculated move to diversify its revenue streams and challenge the economic dominance of China in the region.”
Data reveals the scale of Indonesia’s economic influence. Indonesia’s gross domestic product (GDP) reached $1.38 trillion in 2025, ranking it as the 17th largest economy globally (World Bank). Furthermore, Indonesian foreign direct investment (FDI) has seen a marked increase, driven largely by infrastructure projects and energy sector investments, primarily in Southeast Asia and Africa. “The proliferation of Indonesian brands in Australia, like Hydro Coco and Supercorn, is more than just a marketing campaign,” notes Professor Rohan Davis of Griffith University’s Asia-Pacific Security College. “It’s a strategic investment in brand recognition, aimed at facilitating future trade and investment opportunities.” The festival itself attracted over 100,000 attendees, offering the Indonesian Embassy a significant platform for brand visibility and cultural exchange.
Recent developments over the past six months underscore the intensification of this strategy. The Embassy expanded its cultural outreach program to include performances of traditional Indonesian shadow puppetry (Wayang Kulit) and workshops on batik making. Increased collaboration with Australian universities on joint research projects focused on maritime security and climate change further solidified Indonesia’s position as a key player in regional security discussions. The Australian government recently announced a new defense pact with Indonesia, bolstering military cooperation and deepening strategic ties.
Looking ahead, Indonesia’s quiet diplomacy is likely to become increasingly sophisticated. Within the next six months, we can expect to see further expansions of its economic investments in Australia, alongside increased participation in ASEAN-led initiatives focusing on maritime security and counter-terrorism. Over the longer term – within the next five to ten years – Indonesia will likely play a critical role in mediating disputes in the South China Sea and navigating the complex dynamics of the Indo-Pacific. However, challenges remain. The rise of China continues to exert pressure on Indonesia’s strategic autonomy, and maintaining a balance between its economic interests and its commitment to regional stability will be a key test. “The ultimate success of Indonesia’s strategy hinges on its ability to maintain its neutrality while simultaneously building strong alliances,” states analyst Ben Carter from the Strategic Policy Institute. “It’s a delicate balancing act, one that will determine Indonesia’s role in shaping the future of the Indo-Pacific.”
The Embassy of Indonesia’s presence at the National Multicultural Festival serves as a tangible reminder that global stability isn't solely built on military might or political grandstanding. It’s often forged through the quiet, consistent cultivation of relationships – through shared experiences, cultural exchange, and a genuine commitment to mutual understanding. The question remains: will other nations emulate Indonesia's approach, leveraging soft power to navigate a world increasingly defined by complex geopolitical challenges? The answer will undoubtedly shape the contours of the 21st century.