Background: A landmark defence pact and regional implications
Australia and Papua New Guinea (PNG) recently signed a landmark defence treaty in Canberra, marking Australia’s first new alliance in more than seven decades. The so-called Pukpuk Treaty commits both nations to mutual defense should either face armed aggression, while underscoring a shared interest in regional stability. Indonesia quickly weighed in, stressing that while it respects every country’s right to strengthen defence capabilities, any cooperation must uphold Indonesia’s sovereignty and independence.
Indonesia’s response: Sovereignty and regional stability as guiding principles
In its first official reaction to the treaty, Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson emphasized that Jakarta is closely monitoring the evolving defence cooperation between its neighbours. “Indonesia respects every country’s right to enhance its defence systems,” he said, adding that such cooperation should contribute to peace and stability in the region and avoid escalating geopolitical rivalry. The message underlines a cautious balancing act: supporting regional security while protecting its own territorial integrity.
The border and West Papua: A longstanding flashpoint
West Papua’s ongoing struggle for independence remains a sensitive factor. The Indonesia-PNG border has at times become a flashpoint as separatist activity has persisted, sometimes driving displacement and humanitarian concerns. Indonesia says it is maintaining strong cooperation with PNG to secure the border and manage the flow of people and goods, while restating its expectation that Australia and PNG uphold Indonesia’s sovereignty.
Expert perspectives: What the pact might mean for regional dynamics
Analysts view the agreement as a step toward reinforcing deterrence and ensuring a coordinated approach to security in the region, including maritime security and disaster response. Dr. Natalie Sambhi of Verve Research notes that while the treaty improves interoperability, there is room for interpretation about future scenarios—specifically, whether Australia might align with PNG in a crisis on the Indonesian border. Any such decision would have to weigh decades of defence cooperation with Jakarta and the potential fallout of a diplomatic rift.
Maintaining balance: The role of traditional partners
Indonesia continues to frame its foreign policy around “free and active” diplomacy, avoiding formal military alliances while engaging with a spectrum of partners. Officials stress that despite a growing relationship with China, Indonesia remains connected to traditional partners such as the United States and Australia for training and joint exercises. The government’s stance highlights a broader strategic objective: safeguard regional security through dialogue and responsible cooperation, rather than entanglement in broader great-power competition.
What this means for the region: Mutual responsibility and practical cooperation
For Indonesia, the emphasis is on constructive engagement—working with Australia and PNG to minimize tensions at the border and address shared security challenges. The agreement may also bolster Indonesia’s own security posture by fostering a more capable and cooperative neighbourhood. Experts suggest that areas such as maritime security, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief could see expanded collaboration, ultimately benefiting Indonesia’s strategic environment and the broader Indo-Pacific security architecture.
Conclusion: A careful path forward for regional security
The Australia-PNG defence treaty signals a significant shift in regional security dynamics. Indonesia’s response—anchored in sovereignty, diplomacy, and regional stability—reflects a pragmatic approach to navigating a complex Indo-Pacific landscape. As Jakarta continues to engage with Canberra and Port Moresby, the overarching goal remains clear: a secure neighbourhood where sovereignty is respected, and cooperation contributes to peace rather than rivalry.
