The Centre for Southeast Asian Social Studies (CESASS) is proud to have recently hosted its 33rd SEA CHAT, which was delivered via a two-part Zoom conference. This panel discussion featured four speakers from Russia’s Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO), who each presented on a socio-political topic and its relevance to Indonesia.
Gleb Darchenkov spoke first, delivering the “Information Technology in Modern ASEAN” presentation. This presentation provided information about the process of developing Indonesia’s digital economy, the intersection of Indonesia’s Information Technology sector with the country’s approach to foreign policy, and the perception of Information Technology among the Indonesian population. Gleb evidenced that Indonesia’s demographics and population position it as the largest spender on technology in Southeast Asia and the world’s 4th largest mobile market. As a result, Indonesia is witnessing a boom in eCommerce and financial technology which, coupled with a technologically capable population, predicts a high level of competitiveness from Indonesia during a digital era.
The second presentation, delivered by Dmitry Svechnikov, was “The Results of the G20 Summit for Indonesia”. While Indonesia’s historic hosting of the G20 remains fresh in the minds of the international community, Dmitry provided an overview of Indonesia’s 2022 presidency. This included a discussion of the G20’s joint declaration, the dynamics of developed countries compared to developing countries, the boost for the Balinese economy, and Indonesia maintaining its neutrality in the face of tensions regarding the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. By hosting the G20 during such a time, Indonesia has proven itself a neutral mediator and a leader within ASEAN.
CESASS wishes to extend its gratitude to each of the panelists for their contributions, as well as to those who attended SEA CHAT #33. For information about future discussions and events please follow @pssatugm on social media or email pssat@ugm.ac.id.
By: Zacharie Nichols-Lang