Faith, Language, and Leverage: China’s Multi-Pronged Soft Power Strategy in Indonesia

Published on 21 May 2026

Faith, Language, and Leverage: China’s Multi-Pronged Soft Power Strategy in Indonesia

Elizabeth Liew

This article examines how China uses education diplomacy, cultural outreach, religion, and economic partnerships to improve its image and influence in Indonesia. Against a backdrop of historical anti-Chinese sentiment, suspicion toward communism, and concerns over China’s treatment of Uyghurs, Beijing has developed a carefully localised soft power strategy tailored to Indonesian society.

Elizabeth Liew argues that China’s approach combines Islamic-friendly educational programs, Mandarin language initiatives, scholarships, and economic incentives under the Belt and Road Initiative to gradually reshape Indonesian perceptions of China.