By: Fitra Ridwan (*
The state visit of the President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, to Thailand is not merely a ceremonial trip at the beginning of his leadership, but rather a strategic step that reflects the direction of Indonesia’s future foreign policy: active, open, and establishing close partnerships with friendly countries, especially in the Southeast Asia region.
Thailand and Indonesia have a long history of diplomatic relations, which this year is exactly 75 years old. This momentum is optimally utilized by both countries to reaffirm their commitment to closer cooperation, not only in politics, but also in the economy, defense, and handling of global issues such as human trafficking and transnational crime.
Deputy for Protocol, Press, and Media of the Presidential Secretariat, Yusuf Permana, revealed that the agenda of President Prabowo’s official visit to Thailand consists of a series of important activities designed to strengthen bilateral relations in various strategic areas. According to Yusuf, this meeting is not only a symbol of the close diplomatic relations between Indonesia and Thailand, but also reflects the high respect of the Kingdom of Thailand for Indonesia’s leadership.
In the meeting with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, a rare diplomatic warmth was reflected. PM Paetongtarn clearly stated that Prabowo’s visit was an affirmation of close friendship, as well as part of the celebration of 75 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries. This statement is full of meaning: that Indonesia is considered a very important strategic partner in the region.
More than just a symbolic statement, the two leaders agreed to increase the intensity of consultations and high-level visits on a regular basis, and to utilize various existing bilateral mechanisms. This is a positive signal for the business world and stakeholders in both countries. Not only is the relationship between the countries strengthened, but also concrete cooperation that touches on practical aspects, ranging from trade, investment, defense industry, to social issues such as eradicating human trafficking and illegal gambling.
In the economic sector, the agreement to increase bilateral trade, investment, and tourism is a key point. With trade reaching US$18 billion by 2024, there are still many opportunities for further growth. Indonesia and Thailand are the two largest economies in Southeast Asia, and synergy between the two could be an important pillar in overcoming ongoing global economic challenges.
PM Paetongtarn stated clearly that high-ranking officials of both countries have been asked to formulate partnership actions that produce concrete impacts. This indicates that cooperation will not stop at the level of discourse, but will be followed up in the form of real programs. This includes increasing collaboration in the defense industry, a sector that is now a major concern in the region following the changing dynamics of global geopolitics.
Chairman of the Indonesia-Thailand Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KADIN), Hardy Chandra, welcomed the visit as a strategic momentum. He considered that in the midst of global economic uncertainty, strengthening trade and investment partnerships is a very relevant step. Hardy saw that President Prabowo’s visit would pave the way for increased private sector cooperation, including potential joint ventures, business expansion, and regional supply chain integration.
We also cannot ignore the tourism aspect, which is the mainstay sector of both countries. With the increasing opening of direct flight routes and ease of regulation, tourism cooperation between Indonesia and Thailand is predicted to experience a significant increase in the next few years. This is in line with the government’s efforts to encourage economic growth from the service sector and the creative economy.
From a foreign policy perspective, this visit is a strong initial statement from President Prabowo that Indonesia will continue to play a central role in the Southeast Asian region. By upholding the principles of non-alignment and independence, Indonesia is committed to strengthening mutually beneficial cooperation with friendly countries. This approach is in line with the spirit of ASEAN, namely collaboration without domination.
In addition, this meeting also has broad implications for regional stability. In uncertain global conditions, whether due to geopolitical conflicts, climate change, or economic challenges, regional solidarity is key. The close relationship between Indonesia and Thailand can be an anchor for ASEAN stability, as well as a real example of how bilateral diplomacy can provide strategic benefits for the people of both countries.
Finally, it is important for us as citizens to support President Prabowo’s strategic steps in maintaining and strengthening bilateral relations with friendly countries. Diplomacy is not only the business of leaders, but also reflects long-term national interests that will determine Indonesia’s position in the world. Public support is an important element so that the direction of the government’s foreign policy runs effectively and sustainably.
The visit to Thailand is just the beginning. With firm leadership and a clear vision, we hope that President Prabowo will continue to expand Indonesia’s diplomatic network, opening up more opportunities for cooperation, strengthening Indonesia’s position on the international stage, and ultimately bringing prosperity to all Indonesian people.
(* The author is a political observer from the Query Institute
