In the era of President Prabowo Subianto, Indonesia’s foreign diplomacy is expected to take on a strategy inherited from his father, Prof. Sumitro Djojohadikusumo. This strategy emphasizes the use of narrative and kinship to enhance Indonesia’s soft power on the global stage.
Prof. Sumitro was not only a prominent economist but also a skilled diplomat. His plea to the U.S. Government in 1948 successfully halted American aid funds to the Netherlands, which were being used for military operations in Indonesia.
This diplomatic victory was achieved through Sumitro’s narrative and negotiation skills, as well as his international networking abilities. His actions ultimately led to the recognition of Indonesia’s independence by the Netherlands.
President Sukarno recognized Sumitro’s talents and appointed him as Indonesia’s Ambassador to the United States at a young age, showcasing the importance of narrative and kinship diplomacy in securing Indonesia’s place on the world stage.
