(AseanAll) — Indonesia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in cooperation with the Indonesian Embassy in Singapore, on December 17, 2025 launched a book examining the future of Indonesia–Singapore relations as the two countries marked 58 years of diplomatic ties.
The book, titled “The Next Chapter: Envisioning the Future of Indonesia–Singapore Relations,” was launched at an event in central Jakarta attended by ambassadors from ASEAN member states, Indonesia’s ambassador to Singapore, as well as representatives from academia and government institutions.
The book launch was officially opened by Acting Director General of Asia Pacific and African Affairs, Zelda Wulan Kartika, who emphasized that Indonesia–Singapore relations represent one of the most mature and strategic partnerships in the region.
“For 58 years, Indonesia and Singapore have built a strong partnership based on trust, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to safeguarding regional stability and prosperity,” Zelda stated.
More Than a Historical Record
The book “The Next Chapter: Envisioning the Future of Indonesia–Singapore Relations” is edited by Professor Leo Suryadinata and Dr. Siwage Dharma Negara, and features contributions from leading academics and practitioners, including former Indonesian Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr. Marty Natalegawa.
According to the Acting Director General, the publication goes beyond documenting bilateral milestones by offering strategic perspectives on future challenges.
“The book invites us to view Indonesia–Singapore relations in a more visionary manner, particularly in responding to economic transformation, sustainability agendas, and evolving global geopolitical dynamics,” she added.
Meanwhile, Indonesia’s Ambassador to Singapore, Suryo Pratomo, described the book as a concrete contribution to advancing bilateral ties.
“This book is our tangible contribution to deepening the understanding of Indonesia–Singapore relations, while mapping opportunities and challenges to elevate the partnership to a higher level in the future,” Ambassador Pratomo said.
As he approaches the conclusion of his tenure as Indonesia’s top envoy in Singapore, Ambassador Pratomo also expressed his hope to continue contributing to the advancement of bilateral relations beyond his diplomatic posting.
Over the past decade, Singapore has consistently been Indonesia’s largest source of foreign direct investment (FDI). Strategic cooperation between the two countries also extends to Flight Information Region (FIR), defence cooperation, and the Extradition Treaty, the development of Special Economic Zones (SEZs), connectivity, renewable energy, also the cooperation on education that intensify the two countries’ people-to-people contact.
In this regard, the strategic nature of Indonesia – Singapore cooperation carries significant implications for the broader region.
The book discussion featured critical perspectives on the future direction of Indonesia – Singapore relations, covering emerging economic opportunities, regional challenges, and the role of both countries in maintaining ASEAN stability and centrality.
The Indonesian Foreign Ministry hopes that the exchange of ideas will serve as a policy reference and strengthen public understanding of the importance of Indonesia – Singapore relations in promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in Southeast Asia.
