Indonesia’s Defense Strategy in the South China Sea: Balancing Sovereignty, Security, and Diplomacy Amid China’s Expansion

This article examines China’s strategic environment in the South China Sea (SCS), focusing on political, economic, and geopolitical factors influencing its regional policies and their implications for Indonesia. By incorporating the concepts of total war and people’s war, along with Indonesia’s maritime strategy and China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), this study provides a comprehensive analysis of power dynamics in the region. The research highlights Indonesia’s strategic challenges, including breaches of the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in Natuna, the growing economic reliance on China, and the necessity for diplomatic and military adjustments to safeguard national interests. Indonesia’s role in ASEAN and its balanced foreign policy are essential in mitigating these challenges. Future research could further explore Indonesia's long-term strategic adjustments to counter China's influence while maintaining economic cooperation.