The popular Chinese sugary beverage chain Mixue took Indonesia by (winter) storm thanks to its solid business model and understanding of the Indonesian market. While demonstrating China’s soft power, its culinary diplomacy might clash with the government’s campaign.
This article is a stocktake of the developments of Indonesia’s relationship with China in 2022, focusing on security, economic and soft power considerations.
Underneath all of President Rodrigo Duterte’s strongman bravado is a deep-seated insecurity, resulting in a widespread defeatist attitude. This defeatism, while can be traced back to Filipino’s culture and the country’s longstanding alliance with the United States, manifests in Duterte’s pivot to China policy and neutrality in the Ukraine crisis. It has also provided a suitable context that ushered the return of the Marcos family to power.
All relevant powers have adopted the term “Indo-Pacific” in their foreign policy strategy except for China, which continues to view it with suspicion. It would be more beneficial and productive for China and everyone else if the Middle Kingdom were to adopt the concept as well.
