Chinese Indonesian In Indonesia-China Relations

It is undeniable that Chinese Indonesian is an integral part of Indonesia' s multi-ethnic society.They play important roles in Indonesia' s nation building and development,including the relations between Indonesia and China-even before Indonesia gained its independence-through their economic,political,and socio-cultural influences.They took part in Indonesia's struggle for independence and participate in the country' s economic development,political dynamics,and efforts to maintain national unity.In addition,they have promoted Chinese Indonesian culture,including the traditional ones,established the Chinese schools to provide Chinese education,set up Chinese media,and made great contributions in promoting Indonesia-China relations.They have played roles in improving Indonesia-China relations,as well as the people-to-people relations.In addition,they have contributed largely in the development of their ancestral hometown.This doctoral thesis utilizes the multi-track diplomacy theory encompassing nine tracks,namely the government;non-governmental organization or expert,economic and trade,individual citizen,research,training and education,religious groups,financing,as well as media.All these tracks are used in further analyzes the role of Chinese Indonesians in Indonesia-China relations.In promoting Indonesia-China Relations,the Chinese Indonesians also face some constraints,for example,the doubts on the their ability to benefit Indonesia.On the other hand,they are able to read and understand Chinese language and have a comprehensive understanding of the situation both in China and Indonesia.For many scholars,these are the supporting factors for the Chinese Indonesian to strengthen Indonesia-China relations that the other ethnic groups in Indonesia do not enjoy.Studying and analyzing the role of Chinese Indonesian in Indonesia-China relations cannot ignore the views and expectations of the Indonesian and Chinese government officials,as well as publics.Chapter IV addresses this aspect.It is then necessary to recognize that Chinese Indonesian have played many roles in Indonesia-China relations.The friendly people-to-people relations and exchanges is the cornerstone of two countries bilateral relations.This is why many people cannot deny the significant roles of Chinese Indonesians in Indonesia-China relations.