‘Indonesia at 80: A Partner in ASEAN’s Shared Future – and in the Mekong’s Promise’

On 17 August 1945, Indonesia proclaimed its independence, embarking on a journey that has since shaped Southeast Asia’s history. Today, as the world’s fourth most populous nation marks its 80th Independence Day, it is more than a celebration for Indonesia alone — it is a moment of reflection for the entire ASEAN community.Over eight decades, Indonesia has grown from a newly independent archipelago to an influential G20 economy and a trusted leader in regional diplomacy. Its 2023 chairmanship of ASEAN, role in peacekeeping, and commitment to economic integration have left an indelible mark on our shared region.

For Cambodia, Indonesia is not just a fellow ASEAN member — it is a vital partner with whom our trade and investment ties continue to deepen. Bilateral trade reached US $1.002 billion between January and November 2024, a 3.8% increase over the previous year. Cambodian exports to Indonesia rose 23.1% to US $86.86 million, while imports from Indonesia increased 2.3% to US $915.3 million. This momentum owes much to the proactive facilitation and bridge-building under the leadership of H.E. Santo Darmosumarto, Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to Cambodia, whose tenure has seen stronger economic linkages and renewed business confidence.

As we look outward to expand our trade globally, it is worth remembering the opportunities within ASEAN itself — where, under the ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement (ATIGA), many products can move at 0% tariff with a valid Certificate of Origin and compliance with origin rules. Strengthening these intra-ASEAN supply chains is not only a technical possibility but a strategic advantage, allowing us to build value chains through trusted neighbours without the cost of crossing oceans.

Indonesia’s forward-looking approach is also evident in initiatives like the Indonesia–Mekong Basin Connect Forum, which this year focuses on Energy Security Cooperation in the Region. By bringing together the Ambassadors of Mekong countries, Indonesian state-owned enterprises, and private sector leaders, the forum aims to identify concrete opportunities in renewable energy, conventional power generation, and supporting infrastructure. The Mekong subregion’s demand for electricity is projected to triple by 2025 and continue growing rapidly through 2040 — creating significant space for joint projects in solar, wind, biomass, hydropower, and battery energy storage systems. For companies already engaged in these sectors, the platform offers a direct avenue to forge partnerships that combine commercial viability with sustainable development impact.

Looking ahead, Indonesia’s vast production capacity in fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) and quality construction materials presents competitive, cost-effective options for the Cambodian market. Many Cambodian households are already familiar with Indomie Mi Goreng, which helped shift the local “hot-water pour” noodle habit toward the Indonesian style of boiling and cooking, making it the top instant noodle brand in Indonesia and increasingly popular here. Indomilk has become a favourite drink among schoolchildren, while Kopiko coffee candies have quietly won over consumers with a small but distinctive taste of Indonesia. These everyday products are more than commodities — they are cultural connectors.

This year is also expected to feature the Indonesia–Cambodia Business Forum in Jakarta — a dedicated bilateral platform designed to advance trade, investment, and sectoral partnerships between our two nations. A highlight of the agenda is the planned signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between KADIN and the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce, a milestone aimed at formalising closer economic cooperation. The forum is anticipated to include major business matchmaking sessions in high-potential sectors such as renewable energy, construction materials, FMCG, and education — creating direct opportunities for companies from both countries to explore partnerships and new market entry strategies.

Our friendship, however, is not new. Long before ASEAN was formed, the Kingdom of Cambodia and the Indonesian archipelago shared cultural and trade links dating back to the Angkor Wat era — a time when maritime routes carried not only goods but also ideas, art, and religion. In modern history, Indonesia was among the first to recognise Cambodia’s sovereignty, offering diplomatic support in our early years of independence. That legacy of trust is the foundation on which today’s partnership continues to grow.

Original Source:https://www.khmertimeskh.com/501738362/indonesia-at-80-a-partner-in-aseans-shared-future-and-in-the-mekongs-promise/