Opinion :
Strengthening Friendship : Indonesia-Singapore for a Shared Future 🇮🇩🇸🇬
By: Rioberto Sidauruk*
The relationship between Indonesia and Singapore is akin to two sides of a coin, complementary and inseparable. In the geopolitical and economic landscape of Southeast Asia, this bond stands out as one of the most dynamic and crucial, marked by a long history of cooperation, economic interdependence, and numerous challenges overcome together.
Amidst rapid global changes, the upcoming 60th National Day of Singapore on August 9, 2025, serves as a timely reminder for all—from government to society—of the fundamental importance of preserving and continuously strengthening this bridge of friendship.
Formal diplomatic ties between the two nations were established in 1966, shortly after Singapore gained independence. Despite initial dynamics, a shared understanding of the importance of regional cooperation for stability and mutual progress quickly brought them together.
Both Indonesia and Singapore became founding members of ASEAN in 1967, an organization dedicated to promoting peace, stability, and economic growth in the region. This serves as clear evidence that, despite differences, common interests have always been the primary unifier, building a solid foundation for future cooperation.
A Strong Joint Endeavor
Over time, the relationship between Indonesia and Singapore has rapidly expanded across various sectors, reflecting their geographical proximity and shared strategic interests. Singapore, as a smart city-state with limited resources, heavily relies on trade and investment.
Conversely, Indonesia, with its abundant natural resources and large domestic market, requires investment and expertise to develop its economy. This mutually beneficial symbiosis is evident in the economic and investment sectors, where Singapore consistently ranks as one of the largest investors in Indonesia.
This flow of investment spans diverse sectors, from manufacturing, tourism, and real estate to the digital economy. Areas like Batam, Bintan, and Karimun (BBK) have become focal points for economic cooperation through the Sijori Growth Triangle scheme (Singapore-Johor-Riau). This initiative is designed to leverage the comparative advantages of each region, facilitate investment, and create employment opportunities.
Thousands of Indonesian citizens depend on the economic ecosystem built from this cooperation. The tourism sector also forms a backbone of collaboration, with numerous Singaporean tourists visiting Indonesia and vice versa.
In the realm of defense and security, both nations maintain close cooperation, including joint military exercises, personnel exchanges, and logistical support. The ratification of the defense cooperation agreement in 2023 underscores this serious commitment.
The agreement covers crucial areas such as search and rescue (SAR) and humanitarian assistance. This not only demonstrates high trust between the two armed forces but also represents a vital pillar in maintaining regional stability and security.
Cooperation in education and human resources also continues to be enhanced through scholarship programs, student and lecturer exchanges, and human resource development training. Various universities from both countries have forged partnerships for research collaborations and joint degree programs.
The objective is clear: to improve the quality of human resources and competitiveness in the digital age. Investing in human capacity is an investment in the future. Equally important, geographical proximity and frequent inter-community interactions have also strengthened social and cultural ties. Mutual tourist visits, cultural exchanges, and personal relationships all contribute to understanding and emotional bonds between the peoples.
Nurturing the Bonds of Friendship
The future of the Indonesia-Singapore relationship is expected to further strengthen and deepen, driven by various global and regional factors. With the rapid growth of the digital economy in Southeast Asia, Indonesia and Singapore possess immense potential for collaboration.
Singapore, as a regional technology and financial hub, can be a strategic partner for Indonesia in developing its digital ecosystem, attracting investment in the technology sector, and enhancing digital human resource capacity. This represents a new arena with limitless opportunities.
The global focus on energy transition and sustainability also opens avenues for cooperation in renewable energy development and green technology. This collaboration is essential to meet global climate commitments and create a greener future.
Furthermore, enhanced connectivity and infrastructure, across land, sea, and air, will remain a priority. Joint infrastructure projects will facilitate the flow of goods, services, and people between the two countries, accelerating economic growth.
As key members of ASEAN, the organization’s role for both Indonesia and Singapore will remain central in maintaining stability and promoting economic integration in the region. Cooperation within the ASEAN framework will be an important platform for addressing regional and global challenges together, from maritime security issues to pandemic responses.
Lastly, Indonesia continues to strive to attract more investment from Singapore, particularly in strategic sectors and industrial downstreaming. The Indonesian government is committed to creating an increasingly conducive investment climate.
The sincere well wishes from the people of Indonesia to Singapore on its National Day on August 9, 2025, are more than mere formality. They are an expression of respect, appreciation, and a commitment to continuously nurture this excellent relationship.
The momentum of Singapore’s 60th independence celebration, with its motivating theme “Majulah Singapura” (Onward Singapore), serves as a reminder that a nation’s progress cannot be separated from the role of its neighbors and strategic partners. It is crucial for all of us—both at the Government-to-Government (G2G) level and the People-to-People (P2P) level—to continuously maintain this bond.
At the G2G level, open and constructive dialogue must be preserved to resolve any differences, find common ground, and formulate mutually beneficial policies. Mature diplomacy, mutual understanding, and commitment to joint agreements are key. Meanwhile, at the P2P level, cultural interaction, tourism, educational exchanges, and inter-community collaboration must continue to be encouraged.
The more frequently the people of both nations interact, the stronger the bond of friendship, unseparated by national borders. Student exchanges, arts and cultural programs, or even collaborations between MSMEs, all build fundamental emotional bridges and cross-cultural understanding.
Ultimately, the relationship between Indonesia and Singapore exemplifies a complementary strategic partnership. Singapore, as a financial and technological hub and a gateway for investment, will continue to need Indonesia as a large market, a source of abundant natural resources, and a productive workforce.
Conversely, Indonesia will continue to benefit from the investment, expertise, and global connectivity offered by Singapore. With continuous dialogue, shared commitment, and full support from all levels of society, this relationship will continue to flourish for the prosperity of both nations, and more broadly, for stability and progress in the Southeast Asian region.
Happy National Day, Singapore! Majulah Singapura! 🇸🇬🇮🇩
*Rioberto Sidauruk
International Relations Observer.