Overview
- Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's visit to Jakarta emphasizes trade liberalization, investment opportunities, and advancing the US$30 billion Sun Cable energy project.
- President Prabowo Subianto's 'Golden Indonesia' vision seeks to transform Indonesia into a top global economy by 2045, but faces hurdles including austerity protests and U.S. tariffs.
- Prabowo's US$28 billion free meals program for schoolchildren and mothers has sparked backlash due to funding cuts affecting education and government operations.
- The student-led 'Dark Indonesia' protests criticize austerity measures and express concerns over the increasing role of the military in civilian governance.
- Australia's engagement with Indonesia is viewed as strategically vital, especially as Indonesia balances relationships with major powers like the U.S., China, and Russia.