CELIOS released the “China-Indonesia Survey 2024” to understand public perceptions of relations between Indonesia and China. Zulfikar Rakhmat, Director of CELIOS’s China-Indonesia Desk, emphasized that “Indonesia’s efforts to strengthen its role on the global stage are commendable, but it is equally important to manage international partnerships carefully, particularly in addressing the risks of excessive dependence and potential political influence.” The survey found that 58% of respondents want the government to increase mutually beneficial economic cooperation while safeguarding national sovereignty.

Bhima Yudhistira, Executive Director of CELIOS, highlighted Indonesia’s cautious stance amid US-China rivalry: “78% of Indonesians support a neutral position in the US-China rivalry,” reflecting the public’s desire to preserve national autonomy. At the same time, concerns about Chinese investment remain, with 44% saying infrastructure projects harm bilateral relations and 43% associating China with environmental damage. Bhima stressed, “This issue needs to be addressed urgently by strengthening oversight, promoting transparency, involving communities, and shifting fiscal incentives toward more environmentally friendly investment.”

Public perceptions remain mixed: 66% believe China has a positive political influence, and 51% consider China capable of leading the world. Yeta Purnama, a CELIOS researcher, emphasized that “although China is viewed as an important partner, there are significant concerns about the social and environmental impacts of Chinese investment in Indonesia.” CELIOS hopes this survey will become an annual tool to support better-targeted policies, improve public understanding, and ensure that Indonesia’s future engagement with China benefits all parties.

CELIOS released the “China-Indonesia Survey 2024” capturing public perceptions on Indonesia’s evolving ties with China. Zulfikar Rakhmat, Director of CELIOS’s China-Indonesia Desk, highlighted that “Indonesia’s drive to strengthen its role on the global stage is commendable, but it is equally crucial to manage international partnerships with care, especially in addressing concerns over excessive dependence and the potential for political influence.” The survey found 58% of respondents want the government to enhance mutually beneficial economic cooperation while safeguarding sovereignty.

Bhima Yudhistira, Executive Director of CELIOS, noted Indonesia’s cautious stance amid US-China rivalry: “78% of Indonesians support a neutral stance in the US-China rivalry,” reflecting public desire for national autonomy. At the same time, concerns persist about Chinese investments, with 44% saying infrastructure projects harm bilateral relations and 43% linking China to environmental damage. Bhima stressed, “This issue needs to be urgently addressed by strengthening safeguards, promoting transparency, ensuring community involvement, and shifting fiscal incentives towards more environmentally sustainable investments.”

Public perception remains mixed: 66% believe China exerts positive political influence, and 51% think China is capable of leading the world. Yeta Purnama, CELIOS researcher, emphasized that “while China is seen as an important partner, there are significant concerns about the social and environmental impact of Chinese investments in Indonesia.” CELIOS hopes the survey will become an annual tool to guide informed policymaking, deepen public understanding, and ensure Indonesia’s future engagement with China benefits all stakeholders.

Contact Person:

Yeta Purnama (081325068100)

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