Since its inception in 2016, the government’s New Southbound Policy was a fundamental component of former president Tsai Ing-wen’s (蔡英文) initiatives to diversify Taiwan’s global interactions. The policy is frequently viewed through economic partnerships, trade diversification and interpersonal relations, but it can also be analyzed from an ontological security perspective, underscoring the significance of a state preserving its identity and existence internationally.
From an ontological security perspective, the policy seeks to enhance Taiwan’s economic links while also addressing the nation’s work to affirm its existence in the face of geopolitical challenges. The favorable reaction from Southeast Asian nations, particularly Indonesia, demonstrates the efficacy of the policy.
Ontological security pertains to a state’s necessity to preserve its identity and self-sufficiency despite adversities. The existential danger from China and the constraints of the “one China policy” have significantly influenced Taiwan’s foreign policy stance. Due to restricted access to international organizations and formal diplomatic connections, Taiwan must employ innovative strategies to assert its identity and attain recognition. The southbound policy serves as one such mechanism.
By establishing a significant and reciprocal connection with Indonesia, Taiwan surpasses the limits of formal diplomacy. Taipei fortifies its links through trade, education, health and cultural exchanges, affirming its identity and status as a contemporary, democratic and accountable global participant.
Among the southbound target nations, Indonesia distinguishes itself with its favorable reaction to the strategy. As Southeast Asia’s largest economy and a significant actor in the Indo-Pacific region, Indonesia demonstrates symbolic and practical significance in its receptiveness to Taiwan’s proposal.
The burgeoning Taiwan-Indonesia trade relationship is evidenced by bilateral trade, which is expected to exceed US$10 billion by this year. Taiwan’s involvement in Indonesia’s manufacturing and technology sectors underscores its significance as a vital economic partner.
Moreover, collaboration on energy transition initiatives, including renewable energy generation, demonstrates Taiwan’s dedication to collective regional objectives.
Indonesia’s favorable response to education and culture is evidenced by the hundreds of Indonesian students who have obtained educational scholarships from Taiwan through the southbound framework. That, in turn, augments human resource capacity and fosters enduring positive interactions between the two societies.
The favorable response to the policy in Indonesia demonstrates how it has been a vehicle for Taiwan to establish its footprint. Although without official diplomatic connections, the robust and pragmatic association established through the framework gives Taiwan a sense of presence and acknowledgment in the international arena.
The policy illustrates Taiwan’s capacity to sustain significant global interactions despite diplomatic coercion from China. The favorable response from Indonesia affirms that Taiwan’s role as a responsible and capable entity is acknowledged and valued despite the absence of official recognition.
The policy transcends mere economic or diplomatic initiative. It is a strategic initiative to enhance Taiwan’s ontological security. By focusing on mutual benefits and shared values, Taiwan can uphold its pursuit of ontological security and reinforce its position as an essential and esteemed partner in Indonesia and the Southeast Asian region.
Hafid Adim Pradana is head of laboratory in the Department of International Relations at the University of Muhammadiyah Malang in Indonesia.
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