Imagine a tapestry woven with threads of cooperation and discord. This is Indonesia-Singapore relations. Let’s explore this intricate relationship. It’s a story marked by both tension and close collaboration.
Indonesia and Singapore established formal diplomatic ties on September 7 1967. This happened a month after the formation of ASEAN. Both nations are founding members of ASEAN. They also belong to the Non-Aligned Movement and APEC.
The Indonesia-Singapore relationship stretches back to ancient kingdoms. The strait region was part of Srivijaya’s realm in the 7th century. In 1299, Sang Nila Utama established the Kingdom of Singapura in Temasek.
The Singapore-Indonesia relationship has seen sharp turns. It shifts between tension and cooperation. In the 1960s, Indonesia’s Konfrontasi targeted Singapore. This was because of Singapore’s inclusion in Malaysia. Diplomatic relations improved with the change of regime in Indonesia in 1966. But they worsened when Singapore executed two Indonesian marines in 1968. From 1973, relations became increasingly close.
Under four Indonesian Presidents since 1998, relations faced acerbic exchanges. They also saw obstructive policies. These were interspersed with cooperation declarations. Close relations continued in many functional areas.
Singapore has consistently been Indonesia’s top foreign investor over the past decade. Regular high-level visits underpin strong economic cooperation. This includes health, defense, and the environment.
2017 marked the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations. The celebration was called RISING50. It joined “RI” for the Republic of Indonesia and “SING” for Singapore. The event featured a “four-eye” meeting between leaders. There was a RISING50 book launch, joint stamps, and a tree planting. A flypast of 20 fighter jets formed the number “50”.
Trade and commerce are key to Indonesia-Singapore relations. Singapore is important for Indonesia’s trade with the world. Indonesian business is important for Singapore too. Each is a main trade partner of the other.
Indonesia-Singapore trade volume reaches billions of dollars. Singapore is Indonesia’s top foreign investor. Indonesia’s non-oil and gas exports to Singapore are the highest in the region.
Singapore is Indonesia’s number one source of visitors. Indonesia is also a top source of visitors for Singapore. Singaporeans visit Indonesia for nature and culture. Bali and Batam are popular.
Despite generally good relations, some issues remain. These include bans on sand and granite exports. Singapore relies on these for its construction industry. Also, there are differences over the Riau Islands Flight Information Region.
In January 2022, agreements addressed FIR, defense, and extradition. These are important to both sides. The airspace management agreement lasts 25 years.
Indonesia and Singapore’s story is one of intertwined destinies. Their relationship shows the complexities of international relations. Despite challenges, they continue to seek cooperation. Their shared history and future remain closely linked.