Indonesia will remain a good neighbor amid rising global tensions

hartono · Jul 31, 2026

Indonesia will remain a good neighbor amid rising global tensions

President Prabowo Subianto delivers his remarks during a meeting with leaders of the central and regional Indonesian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (KADIN) at the State Palace, Friday (July 31, 2026). (ANTARA/Fathur Rochman)

Jakarta (ANTARA) - President Prabowo Subianto emphasized that Indonesia will continue to actively support global peace efforts while maintaining its free and active foreign policy and "good neighbor" principle amid escalating international tensions.

Speaking to leaders of the central and regional Indonesian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (KADIN) at the State Palace, Friday, President noted that the current geopolitical climate is becoming increasingly volatile due to armed conflicts across multiple regions.

He pointed to the prolonged conflict in Ukraine—which continues to disrupt global food and energy supply chains—alongside escalating violence across Gaza, Lebanon and Iran, as well as regional instabilities in Myanmar and along the Thailand-Cambodia border.

Amid these rising tensions, Prabowo made it clear that Indonesia will not be drawn into military alliances or rival geopolitical blocs.

"Indonesia's current foreign policy is to be a good neighbor. We want to be a good neighbor," Prabowo declared.

As the largest economy and most populous nation in Southeast Asia, Indonesia carries significant diplomatic weight.

Prabowo stressed that Jakarta must respond to interstate friction with patience, restraint and resistance to provocation, particularly when resolving historical border disputes inherited from the colonial era.

This strict non-aligned stance has positioned Indonesia as an indispensable neutral broker.

Prabowo noted that the country maintains strong, active ties with competing global powers—including the United States, China, Russia, Japan, India and Australia—without taking sides.

"This is what makes us accepted everywhere," the President stated.

Highlighting Indonesia's diplomatic standing, Prabowo revealed that during his recent official visit to Seoul, South Korean President Lee Jae-myung asked whether he would be willing to visit North Korea to help facilitate bilateral dialogue.

Prabowo confirmed his willingness to contribute to regional peacebuilding efforts if officially requested.

"I replied, with respect, that if asked, I would be willing to go," Prabowo said.

"Indonesia is considered to have no interest in interfering in the internal affairs of any country. That is the principle we firmly uphold," he emphasized.

Closing his remarks, the President called on all national stakeholders, including business leaders, to remain vigilant and united without succumbing to panic over global uncertainties.

"There is no point in us panicking or being afraid. The important thing is that we must be more aware. In our actions, words, and expressions, we must be imbued with wisdom and kindness," he concluded.