China Manipulation Continues in the SCS
China Manipulation Continues in the SCS: Indonesia’s Risky Maritime Gamble
China manipulation continues in the SCS as Beijing tightens its grip through so-called “cooperation” agreements with Indonesia. Despite Jakarta’s repeated rejection of China’s sweeping claims, the latest maritime security deal exposes Indonesia to new risks and undermines its sovereignty.
China Manipulation Continues in the SCS: A Deal That Weakens Indonesia
Beijing’s influence operations in the South China Sea are well-documented. China has built and militarized artificial islands, deployed coast guard and militia fleets, and used economic leverage to pressure its neighbors. The new maritime agreement with Indonesia is just the latest example of China’s “divide and conquer” strategy. By dangling promises of joint development, Beijing seeks to legitimize its illegal claims and weaken regional resistance.
Observers and lawmakers in Indonesia are unimpressed. Many see the joint statement as a dangerous concession. It opens the door for China to claim overlapping rights in Indonesia’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) near the Natuna Islands. Lawmakers warn that without clear boundaries, Indonesia risks being manipulated by China’s ever-changing “nine-dash line”—now even expanded to ten dashes.
A Threat to Sovereignty and Local Livelihoods
China’s manipulation continues in the SCS as its vessels routinely violate Indonesian waters, harassing local fishermen and threatening natural resources. The maritime deal does nothing to stop these incursions. Instead, it risks legitimizing China’s presence and undermining Indonesia’s territorial integrity.
Local economies, especially in Natuna and the Riau Islands, are already suffering. Chinese fishing fleets, backed by coast guard ships, outcompete Indonesian fishermen and deplete fish stocks. The agreement also contradicts President Prabowo’s promises to defend economic sovereignty and protect community welfare.
Regional Reputation at Stake
This deal also damages Indonesia’s standing with its ASEAN neighbors. By appearing to compromise with China, Jakarta risks alienating the Philippines, Vietnam, and Malaysia—countries that also face Chinese aggression in the South China Sea. The move undermines Indonesia’s “good neighbor” policy and weakens efforts to present a united front against Beijing’s expansionism.
China’s Long-Term Strategy and the Danger of Complacency
China manipulation continues in the SCS not just through direct action but through slow, calculated influence. Beijing has a long-term strategy: normalize its illegal activities by drawing neighboring countries into vague, unenforceable agreements. Each time Indonesia signs a new deal, China uses it to claim legitimacy and sow confusion about maritime boundaries. This tactic not only weakens Indonesia’s legal position but also erodes public trust in the government’s ability to defend national interests.
Furthermore, China’s economic promises often come with hidden costs. Infrastructure investments and joint ventures may seem attractive, but they can lead to debt traps and dependency. Indonesia must be wary of sacrificing long-term sovereignty for short-term economic gain.
Conclusion: Time for a Firm Stand
China manipulation continues in the SCS, and Indonesia must wake up to the dangers. Cooperation that undermines sovereignty is not real cooperation. Indonesia should prioritize clear, rule-based diplomacy and defend its territorial rights—before more ground is lost and local communities pay the price.
