Australia's relationship with Indonesia is a complex and multifaceted one, with a history of both cooperation and tension. Despite the recent strengthening of economic and defense ties, there are concerns about the country's focus on its nearest large neighbor. The article highlights the importance of Indonesia to Australia's region and the potential consequences of a lack of engagement. It discusses the economic challenges Indonesia is facing, including a major tremble in its economy, a depreciating currency, and a significant capital outflow. These issues are relevant to Australia's interests, and the article emphasizes the need for a deeper understanding of the region. The author argues that Australia's Asia capability is in decline, with a lack of focus on language and cultural studies, and a potential shortage of Indonesian-speakers and other Asian language experts. The article also mentions the importance of language and cultural expertise in building relationships and understanding the region, and the potential impact of AI translation tools on this. The author concludes by emphasizing the need for a sustained national policy focus on preserving institutions that build Australia's Asia capability, and the importance of understanding the region's societies, cultures, and politics.
