- Chinese Car Startup ROX Motor Plans Entry into Indonesia: On August 30, 2024, during the 2024 Chengdu Motor Show, ROX Motor CEO Jarvis Yan expressed strong interest in entering the Indonesian market, specifically targeting the Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) segment. Yan emphasized the strategic importance of Indonesia due to its large population, burgeoning middle class, and rapid economic growth, which he believes present significant opportunities for automotive expansion.
- China-Indonesia Media Forum Discusses Enhanced Cooperation: On September 2, 2024, the China-Indonesia Media Forum convened in Beijing, bringing together senior editors from major Indonesian media outlets, including Antara News Agency, Kompas, and the Jakarta Post. The forum focused on the vital role of media exchanges in enhancing bilateral relations, with discussions centered on challenges and responsibilities in the new media era. Indonesian Ambassador to China, Djauhari Oratmangun, highlighted the critical role of media in fostering people-to-people connections and bridging cultural gaps. Rfan Junaidi, Director of News at ANTARA, remarked on the long-standing cooperation with China’s Xinhua, noting that this partnership facilitates cultural exchanges through Mandarin broadcasts and joint news initiatives.
- Pangdam Udayana Hosts Chinese Military Delegation: On September 4, 2024, Pangdam IX/Udayana Major General TNI Muhammad Zamroni received an honorary visit from a delegation of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (CPLA) at Makodam IX/Udayana in Denpasar, Bali. Led by Major General Wang Ling, the meeting aimed to strengthen diplomatic relations and enhance military cooperation between Indonesia and China as part of a series of friendly visits by the CPLA.
- Kemenparekraf Conducts Sales Mission to China: The Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy (Kemenparekraf) conducted a sales mission to China for the second time in 2024, targeting major cities like Shenzhen and Guangzhou on September 2 and September 4, respectively. Collaborating with China Southern Airlines as an official partner, the mission aimed to attract Chinese tourists to Indonesia, emphasizing cultural exchanges and tourism opportunities.
- China Space Inaugurated at Istiqlal Mosque: On September 5, 2024, the Chinese Embassy inaugurated the “China Space” at the Istiqlal Mosque Library in Jakarta, marking a significant cultural initiative. Inaugurated by Grand Imam Prof. Dr. KH. Nasaruddin Umar and Chargé d’Affaires Zhou Kan, this facility aims to promote intercultural dialogue through activities such as Mandarin language training, reading programs, and cultural events, making it the first of its kind in a mosque setting.
- DPR Members Emphasize Energy Transition Collaboration with China: On September 5, 2024, Dyah Roro Esti, a member of Commission VII of the House of Representatives, called for stronger collaboration with China on energy transition efforts. Her statements align with those of Minister Bahlil Lahadalia, who highlighted the importance of international partnerships in achieving sustainable energy solutions, emphasizing investment opportunities in renewable energy technologies.
- Training Ship KRI Bima Suci Docks in Shanghai: The KRI Bima Suci, Indonesia’s tall ship, docked at the Shanghai naval base from September 6-10, 2024. This visit serves as both a training mission for cadets and a platform for promoting Indonesian culture and tourism in China, reinforcing maritime cooperation between the two nations. Rear Admiral Bao Daohua of the Shanghai Naval Base commented on the arrival of KRI Bima Suci, stating that it symbolizes the strong friendship between the People’s Liberation Army and the Indonesian National Army. The ship’s visit includes a total of 193 personnel, comprised of cadets and crew members, emphasizing military cooperation and cultural diplomacy.
- Indonesian and Chinese People Enthusiastically Explore KRI Bima Suci: From September 6-10, 2024, KRI Bima Suci docked at the Wusong Naval Base in Shanghai, attracting enthusiastic visitors from both Indonesian and Chinese communities. This positive initiative was welcomed by Indonesian citizens in Shanghai, showcasing the bilateral closeness of Indonesia and China, especially in the military field.
- KRI Bima Suci’s Art and Culture Night in Shanghai: On September 7, 2024, KRI Bima Suci hosted an Indonesian art night at Wusong Naval Base. This event aimed to introduce Indonesian culture through performances, highlighting the Muhibah mission and Kartika Jala Krida (KJK) practice exercises.
- Kemenparekraf Conducts Sales Mission to China: The Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy (Kemenparekraf) conducted a sales mission to China for the second time in 2024, targeting major cities like Shenzhen and Guangzhou on September 2 and September 4, respectively. Collaborating with China Southern Airlines as an official partner, the mission aimed to attract Chinese tourists to Indonesia, emphasizing cultural exchanges and tourism opportunities.
- Fujian Light Industrial Handicraft Delegation Visits ICBC: On September 10, 2024, a delegation from the Fujian Light Industrial Handicraft Import and Export Chambers of Commerce visited the Indonesia China Business Council (ICBC) to discuss investment opportunities in Indonesia. The Fujian delegation highlighted their commitment to quality and explored potential cooperation with Indonesian entrepreneurs.
- Bakamla Deters Chinese Fishing Boats: On September 11, 2024, the Indonesian Marine Security Agency (Bakamla) used the Tanjung Datu 301 State Ship to drive away five Chinese fishing boats that were caught anchoring in the North Waters of Tanjung Berakit, Bintan Regency, Riau Islands.
- Immigration Deports Chinese Ex-Citizen: On September 12, 2024, the Tasikmalaya Class I Immigration Office deported a Chinese foreign national, identified as ZB (33 years old), after he served a sentence for drug-related offenses at the Garut Class II A Correctional Facility in West Java. He was repatriated through Soekarno-Hatta International Airport and is now barred from entering Indonesia.
- Chinese and Australian Investors Break Ground at IKN: On September 12, 2024, Deputy Minister Raja Juli Antoni announced that foreign investors from China and Australia will participate in the eighth groundbreaking at Nusantara, East Kalimantan. The investments include a Rp500 billion project from Delonix China to build malls and apartments, and a Rp150 billion investment from the Australian Independent School for educational facilities.
- KCIC Reports Ticket Sales During Maulid Nabi Holiday: PT Kereta Cepat Indonesia China (KCIC) announced that 75,000 Whoosh fast train tickets were sold during the Maulid Nabi holiday period. The surge in passengers began on September 13, with afternoon and evening departures achieving a 98% occupancy rate.
- Indonesian Arts at “Belt and Road” Culinary Festival: The 6th Belt and Road International Food Fest, held in Beijing from September 15-17, 2024, featured Indonesian arts for the first time. Performances included traditional angklung music, dance, and folk songs, showcasing Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage.
- “Civil War” Match Opens China Open: On September 17, 2024, ten Indonesian representatives began their journey at the China Open 2024 tournament held at the Olympic Sports Center Gymnasium in Changzhou, China. The competition kicked off with a “civil war” match among the Indonesian athletes.
- China Dominates Indonesia’s Electric Vehicle Market: On September 18, 2024, data from the Association of Indonesian Automotive Industries (GAIKINDO) revealed that Chinese car manufacturers, particularly BYD, led the electric vehicle market in Indonesia with total sales of 2,971 units in August 2024, marking a significant presence in the sector.
- Kemendes PDTT Brings Village Heads to China: From September 18-28, 2024, the Ministry of Villages, Development of Disadvantaged Regions and Transmigration (Kemendes PDTT) organized a “Benchmarking Batch 4” activity in Beijing, bringing 12 village heads from various Indonesian regions to learn from Chinese practices and serve as models for rural development in Indonesia.
- Airlangga: RI-China Cooperation is Complementary: On September 19, 2024, during the celebration of China’s 75th National Day in Jakarta, Airlangga Hartarto, Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, highlighted the complementary and mutually beneficial nature of Indonesia-China cooperation, particularly in the economic sector, as both nations approach 75 years of diplomatic relations.
- CIEIE 2024 Strengthens E-Commerce Cooperation: The China International E-commerce Industry Expo (CIEIE) 2024 opened in Jakarta from September 19-21, featuring over 300 participants from more than 20 industries, aiming to enhance e-commerce collaboration between Indonesia and China, facilitated by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT).
- Indonesian Consulate General in Shanghai Presents Borneo Arts: On September 20, 2024, the Consulate General of Indonesia in Shanghai held a diplomatic reception showcasing traditional Borneo arts, including the Febaya Dance and Tarawang Gantung Dance, performed by Indonesian students from Nanjing.
- China Invests Rp3 Trillion for Makassar City PSEL Project: On September 24, 2024, the Makassar City Government signed a cooperation agreement with Shanghai SUS Environment Co. Ltd. for a waste-to-energy project valued at US$200 million (around Rp3 trillion). This partnership aims to address urban waste challenges while contributing to green energy initiatives in Indonesia.
- RI-China Strengthen Trade Relations through CAEXPO-CABIS 2024: From September 24-28, 2024, Indonesia participated in the China-ASEAN Expo and China-ASEAN Business Investment Summit (CAEXPO-CABIS) in Guangxi, China. The exhibition featured two Indonesian pavilions showcasing domestic products, particularly in the palm oil sector, as part of efforts to enhance trade relations with China.
- Trade Ministry Official Highlights Importance of Cooperation with China: On September 24, 2024, Mardyana Listyowati, Director General of National Export Development at the Ministry of Trade, emphasized that cooperation with China is essential for ASEAN, particularly in the context of the 2025 Master Plan on ASEAN Connectivity (MPAC) and other development goals.
- Indonesian Village Chief Praises Conservation of Dujiangyan Irrigation Project: On September 24, 2024, the fourth Indonesian rural cadre training course group, organized by the Chinese Embassy in Indonesia and implemented by the International Exchange Center of China’s Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, arrived in Dujiangyan, Sichuan Province. The Dujiangyan Irrigation Project, built 2,280 years ago, is hailed as the “ancestor of the world’s water conservation culture” and is the only remaining large-scale irrigation project without dam construction.
- Indonesian Village Chiefs Explore Poverty Alleviation “Code” in Chengdu: On September 26, 2024, a group of Indonesian village chiefs visited rural areas in Pengzhou City, Chengdu, to learn about China’s poverty alleviation strategies, organized by the Embassy of China in Indonesia and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China.
- Indonesia Welcomes More Investment from China: In an interview on September 24, 2024, Nurul Ichwan, Deputy for Investment Promotion of the Ministry of Investment / Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM), stated that Indonesia is open to further investment from China across various industries. He emphasized the importance of Chinese investment in sectors related to Indonesia’s wealth, particularly its natural resources.
- Indonesia Speaks for Clean Palm Oil at CAEXPO: During the 21st China-ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO) from September 24-28, 2024, the Indonesian delegation advocated for “Clean Palm Oil” at the Nanning International Convention and Exhibition Center. The Indonesian Palm Oil Plantation Fund Management Agency (BPDPKS) and the Indonesian Palm Oil Entrepreneurs Association (GAPKI) aimed to promote sustainability and responsible practices in the palm oil industry.
- Director General of PEN at China-Indonesia Trade and Investment Conference: On September 25, 2024, CAEXPO 2024 was held at the Grand MetroPark Hotel in Nanning. Mardyana Listyowati, Director General of National Export Development, attended the China-Indonesia Trade and Investment Conference, promoting opportunities from RCEP implementation and signing three MoUs with various associations.
- Consulate General in Shanghai and BI Promote Local Currency Settlement: At the Indonesia-China Business Forum (ICBF) on September 25, 2024, the Consulate General of Indonesia in Shanghai and Bank Indonesia promoted Local Currency Settlement (LCS) for bilateral transactions, facilitating easier investments and transactions in Indonesia.
- Chinese Publishers Triumph at Indonesia International Book Fair 2024: On September 25, 2024, a delegation of Chinese publishers showcased over 700 premium Chinese books at the Indonesia International Book Fair (IIBF) in Jakarta. A significant highlight was the signing ceremony between Higher Education Press and Indonesian publisher PT Legacy Utama Kreasindo for the Chinese textbook “Experiencing Chinese for Primary Schools (International Version)”.
- China-Indonesia Literary Publishing Forum Strengthens Cultural Exchange: On September 26, 2024, the fourth China-Indonesia Literature Translation and Publishing Forum was held at Al-Azhar University Indonesia. The forum aimed to bolster cultural exchange, focusing on translating Indonesian folklore into Chinese and promoting children’s books.
- Work Accident at PT IMIP Takes Another Victim: On September 28, 2024, a tragic work accident occurred at PT Indonesia Morowali Industrial Park (IMIP), resulting in the death of a worker, Andri, at the PT Walsin Nickel Industrial Indonesia facility. This incident has raised concerns about worker safety, as it adds to a troubling record of 17 work-related accidents at the site this year.
- Immigration Investigates Chinese Nationals in Illegal Mining: On September 24, 2024, officers from the Mataram Immigration Office in West Nusa Tenggara reported information regarding 15 Chinese nationals suspected of involvement in illegal mining activities in Sekotong, West Lombok Regency.
- BYD is Official Vehicle for Decarbonization Conference: At the Indonesia International Sustainability Forum (ISF) 2024 in Jakarta, BYD, the Chinese electric car manufacturer, provided 18 BYD Seal vehicles as official transport for delegates and guests during the conference.
- Ministry of Cooperatives and SMEs Warns of Predatory Pricing: Hanung Harimba Rachman from the Ministry of Cooperatives and SMEs raised concerns about predatory pricing practices from Chinese e-commerce platforms, which could threaten Indonesia’s micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
- SAR Team Evacuates Chinese National in Diving Incident: A joint search and rescue (SAR) team successfully evacuated the body of Zhou Wei Gang, a 61-year-old Chinese national who died while diving in Alor Kecil Waters, East Nusa Tenggara.
- Indonesian Embassy Promotes Local Products at CIFTIS 2024: The Indonesian Embassy in Beijing actively promoted Indonesian tourism and local products during the China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS) 2024, engaging with visitors to highlight Indonesia’s attractions.
- Jatam Questions Police’s Commitment in Chinese Foreigners’ Illegal Mining Case: The Mining Advocacy Network (Jatam) raised concerns regarding the Central Sulawesi Police’s commitment to investigating suspected illegal mining activities involving Chinese nationals, after the case was returned for further examination.
- KCIC Confirms Whoosh Operations Resuming Post-Earthquake: Following a 5.0 magnitude earthquake in Bandung Regency, PT Kereta Cepat Indonesia China (KCIC) conducted inspections to ensure safety and confirmed the resumption of Whoosh high-speed train operations.
- Chinese Investors Eye Indonesian Dairy Farms: Chinese investors from Hangzhou House of Chamber plan to invest in Indonesian dairy farming, intending to develop farms and introduce 30,000 cows across strategic locations in Java, Sumatra, and Kalimantan.
- Hainan Becomes Popular Production Site for Indonesian Microdrama: The Indonesian microdrama “Rahasia Bangsawan” completed filming in Hainan Province, chosen for its picturesque setting as a favored location for Indonesian productions.
- China Highlights Strengthening Bilateral Ties Under Xi Jinping-Jokowi: Zhou Kan, China’s ad-interim Chargé d’Affaires to Indonesia, stated that China-Indonesia bilateral relations are strengthening under the leadership of Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indonesian President Joko Widodo, thanks to growing mutual trust.
- Kemendes PDTT: Village Funds Can Be Used for Productive Businesses Like in China: The Ministry of Villages, Development of Disadvantaged Regions and Transmigration (Kemendes PDTT) aims to utilize village funds for production activities, inspired by successful models in Chinese villages.
- Dozens of Chinese Jiangxi Entrepreneurs Explore Investment Opportunities in Indonesia: A delegation from Jiangxi Province met with the Indonesia China Business Council (ICBC) to discuss potential factory construction projects in Indonesia across various sectors.
- Kemenparekraf Promotes Indonesian Cuisine in China: Through the ‘Spice Up The World’ program, the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy is collaborating with PT United Harvest China to promote Indonesian cuisine in China.
- Kotamobagu-Sulut Kanim Investigates Three Chinese Foreigners Related to Immigration Crimes: The North Sulawesi Regional Office is investigating three Chinese nationals allegedly involved in misusing residence permits in Indonesia.
- Wuling to Produce EV Batteries in Indonesia by End of 2024: Wuling Motors announced plans to produce electric vehicle batteries in Indonesia by the end of 2024, contributing to the country’s EV ecosystem with the MAGIC Battery.
- GAC Aion Begins Distribution of Its First EV in Indonesia: GAC Aion has started distributing its Aion Y Plus model to Indonesian consumers, with positive responses and the inauguration of 10 new dealers in Greater Jakarta and Bandung.
- Minister of Agriculture: Indonesia Can Be Self-Sufficient in Food Like China: Sudaryono emphasized that Indonesia can achieve food self-sufficiency by adopting agricultural technologies and practices used in China.
- Whoosh Serves More Than 10,000 Priority Passengers: PT Kereta Cepat Indonesia China (KCIC) announced that over 10,000 priority passengers have used the Whoosh train service in 2024, catering to various vulnerable groups.
- Indonesia Pushes Blue Economy in South China Sea to Prevent War: Deputy Foreign Minister Pahala Mansury advocated for a blue economy in the South China Sea to avoid conflict among superpowers.
- Manokwari Immigration Deports Three Chinese Nationals: The Immigration Office of Class I Non TPI Manokwari, West Papua, has deported three Chinese nationals—WL, HX, and LH—for violating immigration laws by engaging in unauthorized gold mining activities. Iman Teguh Adianto, Head of Immigration, emphasized the strict enforcement of laws to deter such activities in the future.
- Optimism for Investment from China’s Five Regions: At the Indonesia-China Investment Conference 2024, Berlianto Situngkir, Consul General of Indonesia in Shanghai, expressed optimism for increased investments from his five working regions in China, despite economic slowdowns. He reported significant trade figures from provinces like Jiangsu and Zhejiang, totaling over $22 billion in the first half of 2024.
- BKPM Introduces Prabowo’s Eight Missions to Chinese Entrepreneurs: During the investment conference, Nurul Ichwan from BKPM introduced Prabowo Subianto’s eight strategic missions aimed at enhancing Indonesia’s investment landscape, focusing on sectors like the digital economy, green energy, and infrastructure development.
- Encouraging Investment Beyond Java: The Ministry of Investment (BKPM) has called on Chinese entrepreneurs to explore investment opportunities outside Java, particularly in Kalimantan, where Indonesia’s new capital city is being developed.
- Strengthening Economic-Ties: The China-Indonesia International Trade Corridor Cooperation and Exchange Conference in Jakarta has facilitated deeper economic and trade exchanges, aiming to forge stronger partnerships between both nations.
- Neta Launches New Electric Vehicle: Chinese electric car manufacturer Neta has launched the Neta X model in Indonesia, contributing to efforts to reduce carbon emissions and bolster the automotive sector’s growth.
- High-Tech Companies Seek Opportunities in Indonesia: At the 21st China-ASEAN Expo in Nanning, companies like Guangxi MESDA Group are showcasing advanced machinery, expressing interest in exploring business opportunities within Indonesia and Southeast Asia.
- 7th Indonesia-China Energy Forum: The Government announced winners of the Phase I Oil and Gas Working Area auction during the 7th Indonesia-China Energy Forum. Notable winners include the Premier Oil South Andaman Limited Consortium and Mubadala Energy Holdings Limited, with a combined investment value exceeding $19 million.
- Scholarship Recipients Head to Taiwan: In line with Indonesia’s vision for 2045, five top students from Adhi Tama Surabaya Institute of Technology will pursue studies in Taiwan, aiming to enhance technical competencies and foster international collaborations.
- Coal Downstream Projects Offered to China: Indonesia is promoting coal downstream projects, such as coal upgrading and liquefaction, as part of its commitment to sustainable development and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
- Indonesian National Team Uses Chartered Plane: For their upcoming away matches against Bahrain and China, the Indonesian National Team will use a chartered plane to minimize player fatigue and reduce the risk of injuries.
- Chinese National Faces Trial for Gold Theft: A Chinese national, YH, was tried for illegally mining gold in West Kalimantan, resulting in significant losses for the state. He faces up to five years in prison and a hefty fine under Indonesian law.
- Ministry Invites Chinese Investment Outside Java: The BKPM reiterated its invitation for Chinese entrepreneurs to invest in regions outside Java, highlighting Kalimantan’s potential in light of Indonesia’s new capital.
- China Remains Top Export Destination: According to the Central Statistics Agency (BPS), China continues to be Indonesia’s primary export destination, with non-oil and gas exports reaching $5.33 billion in August 2024.
- Commemoration of China’s 75th Anniversary: Zhou Kan, Charge d’Affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Indonesia, reaffirmed China’s commitment to global peace, emphasizing the close cooperation between the two nations through various diplomatic frameworks.
- Miniso Opens Largest Store in Indonesia: Miniso has launched its largest store globally in Indonesia, signaling confidence in the Indonesian market’s potential, which is now seen as more lucrative than even China.
- Bank Indonesia Invites Chinese Investors: Doni P Joewono, Deputy Governor of Bank Indonesia, encouraged Chinese investors to capitalize on opportunities in Indonesia’s renewable energy and digital technology sectors, highlighting the success of local currency transactions that reached $1.2 billion.
