Indonesia Faces 'Cognitive Warfare' Threat in Maritime Security

As a nation with vast maritime interests, Indonesia is facing the emergence of 'cognitive warfare,' a new form of conflict in addition to threats from physical military power. This involves hostile forces attempting to distort national decision-making processes and public perception, and create confusion through information manipulation, disinformation campaigns, and psychological propaganda. Cognitive warfare at sea can unfold before or in parallel with physical conflicts, posing a serious threat to national security. For example, by disseminating false information regarding territorial claims or resource development in specific maritime areas, it is possible to manipulate international public opinion or incite domestic public sentiment. Due to its geographical characteristics as an archipelagic state, the security of Indonesia's vast maritime space is extremely important. The utilization of information networks and media within this maritime space can become a primary theater for cognitive warfare. Hostile forces may exploit social media and other digital platforms to fan distrust towards Indonesia's naval power and maritime policies. To counter this new threat, in addition to strengthening physical defense capabilities, it is essential to enhance information literacy, implement measures against disinformation, and foster a sense of crisis management among the public. The Indonesian government is required to comprehensively integrate countermeasures against cognitive warfare into its maritime security strategy.