Jakarta’s Descent: A City on the Brink and Indonesia’s Complex Choices
Jakarta, Indonesia, faces a dire reality: it’s sinking. This isn’t a future prediction, but an ongoing crisis. The city’s precarious position, coupled with rising sea levels and unsustainable groundwater extraction, presents a monumental challenge. But the situation is further complicated by Indonesia’s economic decisions, as highlighted by a recent geothermal deal with a firm linked to Israel – a nation with which Indonesia does not have formal diplomatic relations.
The Sinking City: A Crisis Years in the Making
Jakarta’s sinking isn’t a new phenomenon. Decades of unchecked groundwater extraction have caused the land to subside. This, combined with the natural sinking of the Java coastline, has put millions at risk. Parts of the city are sinking at a rate of several centimeters per year. The northern districts are particularly vulnerable, with some areas already below sea level.
Geothermal Energy and Geopolitical Tightropes
Indonesia’s recent agreement to develop geothermal energy with a company reportedly linked to Israel exposes a contradiction. While Indonesia consistently voices support for Palestine, it’s simultaneously pursuing economic partnerships that involve entities connected to a nation it doesn’t officially recognize. This raises questions about the prioritization of economic interests over political principles.
Islamic Finance: A Potential Pillar of Resilience?
Beyond the geopolitical complexities, Indonesia is exploring avenues to bolster its economic resilience. Islamic finance is being considered not as an ideological shift, but as a practical component of a broader strategy. This approach could offer alternative funding models and risk management tools, potentially strengthening Indonesia’s financial stability.
Women in Diplomacy: A Russian Precedent
Interestingly, a historical note highlights Russia’s early adoption of women in senior diplomatic roles. This contrasts with the often slower progress in other nations and offers a case study in the benefits of gender diversity in international relations.
Navigating Global Power Dynamics: Indonesia and the US
Indonesia’s involvement with former US President Trump’s “Board of Peace” presents both opportunities and risks. While it could provide a platform to influence Gaza recovery efforts, it as well raises concerns about legitimacy and the potential erosion of multilateral cooperation.
State Capitalism: Defining the Role of Government
The debate surrounding state capitalism in Indonesia continues. Article 33 of the Indonesian Constitution doesn’t mandate direct state control over all economic sectors, suggesting a need for a more nuanced approach to defining the government’s role in the economy.
Regional Stability: The Thailand-Cambodia Ceasefire
The recent ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia serves as a test for ASEAN’s commitment to peaceful dispute resolution. The organization’s ability to foster mutual trust and collective responsibility will be critical in maintaining regional stability.
Clean Energy Transition: Pertamina and GCL
A new energy deal between Pertamina and GCL raises questions about the future of Indonesia’s clean energy transition. The role of gas and waste-to-energy technologies in achieving cleaner power remains a subject of debate.
Resource Nationalism: Lessons from Venezuela and Greenland
The experiences of Venezuela and Greenland demonstrate the potential pitfalls of resource nationalism. Economist Paul Krugman argues that the perceived value of resources can be illusory, highlighting the importance of sound economic policies.
ASEAN’s Strategic Importance in a Fragmented World
As the global economy becomes increasingly fragmented, ASEAN’s strategic importance to Indonesia grows. A more cohesive ASEAN could unlock greater trade and foreign direct investment opportunities for Indonesia.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is causing Jakarta to sink?
Jakarta is sinking due to decades of excessive groundwater extraction, leading to land subsidence, combined with the natural sinking of the Java coastline.
What is Indonesia’s stance on Israel?
Indonesia does not have formal diplomatic relations with Israel, but consistently expresses support for Palestine.
What is Islamic finance?
Islamic finance is a financial system based on principles derived from Islamic law, offering alternative funding models and risk management tools.
What role does ASEAN play in regional stability?
ASEAN is committed to peaceful dispute resolution, mutual trust, and collective responsibility in maintaining regional stability.
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