Will Indonesia Join China or USA? What about BRICS?

Indonesia’s stature as a burgeoning economic and military heavyweight in Southeast Asia is increasingly capturing international attention. The nation boasts the largest economy in the region, with a gross domestic product of $1.19 trillion in 2023, ranking 16th globally by nominal GDP. Forecasted to grow at 5% in 2024, Indonesia’s economic vigor is propelled by robust domestic consumption and extensive infrastructure investments. In the same year, Foreign Direct Investment inflows totaled $47.5 billion, enhancing key industries such as metal goods and telecommunications. In 2023, the Indonesian military comprised approximately 1.05 million personnel, including 400,000 active-duty members, 400,000 reserves, and 250,000 paramilitaries. This comprehensive force structure allows Indonesia to maintain a robust defense posture across its extensive archipelago.