Comparison of Asian Countries' Strength: Indonesia at a Medium Level

Indonesia is a middle power in Asia. It is not weak, but still far from superpower status.

This is according to the *Asia Power Index* compiled by the Lowy Institute, an Australian research institution.

The Lowy Institute defines "power" as a country's ability to influence the behavior of other states, non-state actors, and international events.

They assess the power of major Asian countries through eight key indicators:

1. Economic capability;
2. Military capability;
3. National resilience/stability;
4. Future resources;
5. Economic networks;
6. Defense networks;
7. Diplomatic influence; and
8. Cultural influence.

The assessment results are formulated into a score on a scale of 0-100. A score of 0 indicates very weak influence, and a score of 100 indicates very strong influence, with the following categorization:

* Score 0—10: weak (minor power)
* Score >10—70: middle power
* Score >70: very strong (super power)

Using this method, in 2023 Indonesia achieved a score of 19.4 out of 100, placing it in the middle power category.

According to the Lowy Institute, in 2023 Indonesia had relatively good national resilience/stability and international diplomacy. However, its military capability and defense networks were not optimal.

In terms of military capability, Indonesia only achieved a score of 14.6 out of 100. This indicator is assessed based on defense spending, the condition of the military organization, and weapons systems.

Then, in terms of defense networks, Indonesia's score was only 14.8 out of 100. This indicator is assessed based on international military alliance relationships, defense diplomacy, and global arms partnerships.

In Southeast Asia, Indonesia's overall power score in 2023 was only surpassed by Singapore.

Looking at Asia as a whole, Indonesia also lagged behind China, Japan, India, and South Korea.