Indonesia's Counter-Terrorism Efforts Show Mixed Results Amid Regional Disparities

Veteran strategist and security analyst Mohan Malik has indicated that Indonesia has achieved some success in managing and containing the threat of domestic terrorism. Malik's assessment comes as the world marks 25 years since the 9/11 attacks that spawned the Global War on Terror, and as the U.S.-led withdrawal from Afghanistan five years ago signals the end of that era. According to Malik, countries such as Thailand, Indonesia, and India in South Asia have managed the threat of domestic terrorism relatively well. However, he points out that the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) remains divided, not only between maritime and mainland nations but also along religious lines, encompassing Buddhism, Christianity, and Islam, and still faces significant challenges. For Indonesia, as a country with a majority Muslim population, counter-terrorism has remained a critical issue. The nation has experienced significant terrorist attacks by Islamist extremist groups in the past, prompting the government to prioritize security and the eradication of terrorism. While domestic terrorist incidents are reported to be on a declining trend, concerns persist regarding the spread of extremist ideologies and the continued activities of terrorist organizations in certain regions. Malik also analyzes that China has strengthened its geopolitical position since the Global War on Terror. China is proceeding with the construction and militarization of artificial islands in the South China Sea. Even as negotiations for a "Code of Conduct" with ASEAN countries progress, China's influence is growing. This presents new maritime security challenges for ASEAN nations, particularly for coastal states like Indonesia. Indonesia faces not only the task of maintaining domestic stability and continuing counter-terrorism efforts but also complex geopolitical challenges, including its relationship with China, which aims to expand its regional influence, and the South China Sea issue. These factors are likely to shape the future of Indonesia's security policy.