The realm of scientific discovery is constantly evolving, with nations across the globe seeking beneficial collaborations. This is the case for Indonesia, who recently breathed fresh life into its research alliance with Japan. This rejuvenated partnership is tailored to nurture the research capacity of both nations, particularly in the realms of mobility, biodiversity, and manufacturing.
The Social and Humanity Sciences Organization of Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) highlighted the significance of this enhanced cooperation. To them, it’s more than a mere exchange of ideas; it paves the way for a robust academic ecosystem. Through this renewed partnership, Indonesia will dispatch scholars and researchers to Japan, and in return, will host Japanese experts to augment their local intellectual landscape.
An international symposium, scheduled for July 25-26, 2023, serves as the perfect platform to celebrate this rejuvenated alliance. Co-hosted by BRIN and the Japan Foundation, the symposium will delve into the five decades-long camaraderie and partnership between Japan and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), presently under Indonesia’s chairmanship.
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Indonesia has always taken keen interest in ASEAN, with numerous studies conducted since the bloc’s inception in 1967. Meanwhile, their research on Japan took off in 2001. Yet, according to Burhani, Indonesian studies haven’t fully explored the wider perspectives, often honing in on specific issues.
BRIN’s head, Laksana Tri Handoko, however, sees a silver lining in this renewed partnership. He envisages it as a springboard for Indonesian researchers, encouraging and facilitating their studies in Japan. While government-funded scholarships once dominated the Indonesian student population in Japan, the trend has now shifted towards English-speaking nations, even among those with government or LPDP scholarships.
Handoko asserted the need to fortify this renewed collaboration, especially considering the pivotal role Japan plays as a partner for Indonesia. He stressed the importance of enhancing their relationship with Japan through mutual exchanges of students, researchers, and academics.
(Source: Antara News)
