Ambassador: Indonesian Alumni in Chinese Universities Key to Bridging Economic Cooperation

Indonesian Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China, Djauhari Oratmangun, highlighted the importance of Indonesian alumni from Chinese universities as a bridge to enhance economic cooperation between Indonesia and China. ‘In many cases, investments and business collaborations arise not from proposals, but from trust, access, networks, and long-term relationships such as university alumni,’ Oratmangun said during an Indonesia-China business forum and the launch of the Cheung Kong Graduate School of Business (CKGSB) Alumni Association in Jakarta on Tuesday. The ambassador noted that Indonesian students graduating from Chinese universities, particularly those studying economics like CKGSB alumni, are well-versed in the business culture, regulations, and market dynamics of both countries. This theoretical understanding is further bolstered by their work experience at Chinese tech giants such as Alibaba, Xiaomi, and JD.com, he added. With this expertise, Indonesian alumni in China can easily connect investors, entrepreneurs, technology partners, and expand market access in both nations. ‘Alumni networks like those established by CKGSB graduates can act as catalysts for more concrete and mutually beneficial long-term partnerships,’ Ambassador Djauhari stated. ‘With these networks, they can then invest in Indonesia,’ he added. According to Djauhari, economic cooperation between the two nations has potential for continued growth, as Indonesia’s large market and demographic dividend can be supported by China’s strong manufacturing capabilities, technology, and innovation ecosystem. He mentioned several CKGSB alumni aged 30-40 have already invested in Indonesia through various ventures and companies. Djauhari also stated he has met CKGSB alumni multiple times at the Indonesian Embassy in Beijing to explore strengthening economic ties. He said this enthusiasm demonstrates China views Indonesia as a strategic partner in economic development. CKGSB also plans to increase its involvement in Indonesia’s national education sector by establishing a campus there, as part of its contribution to developing quality human resources for national economic development, the Indonesian ambassador to China said.