There has been some talk among academic circles about the coming ascendancy of a new power in the Asia-Pacific, which has been aptly branded KIA (Korea-Indonesia-Australia).
The argument, as voiced among others by Jonas Parello-Plesner, a Scandinavian foreign-policy adviser, is that although undertakings of powerhouses such as China, India, Japan and the US would continue to dominate in the region, a new order is very much in the making, with Korea, Indonesia and Australia playing greater roles as "middle powers".
Can Indonesia be a "middle power"? Some may smirk at this suggestion, arguing that Indonesia is in no capacity to play such a role, considering its problems at home, let alone its dubious recognition abroad. Meanwhile, others may say that to aspire to become a "middle power" is akin to aspiring for mediocrity.
However, all things considered, Indonesia's rise to international stardom should indeed be pursued through playing the role of a "middle power". In doing so, Indonesia would not only enhance its image as a responsible member of the international community, but also further strengthen its national resolve in conducting a "free and active foreign policy".
Parello-Plesner argues that Korea, Indonesia and Australia have every potential to play larger roles not only in the region's economy, but also in international politics. All three countries are members of the G20, which has gained prominence in recent efforts to tackle the global economic crisis.
Indonesia's basis for middle-power status stems from its success in domestic political reform, in particular, the embracing of democracy by its multiethnic, multireligious society.
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