As an emerging maritime power, Indonesia will encounter a variety of considerations in deciding how it will project its power in the region. In the lead up to his election, Indonesian President Joko Widodo promised to strengthen Indonesia’s maritime security, develop regional diplomatic ties and expand the capacity of Indonesia’s navy.

In his inaugural speech, Widodo envisioned Indonesia as a global maritime power, aspiring to become an integral part of a world order founded on freedom, eternal peace, and social justice. While an inspiring ambition, Jakarta will need to overcome the challenges ahead, particularly in terms of regional security, for Widodo’s Indonesia Raya (Great Indonesia) to come to fruition.