In a world where diplomacy often moves quietly behind closed doors, ambassadors serve as the living bridge between nations, culture and peoples.

The Indonesian Ambassador to Sri Lanka Dewi Gustina Tobing carries this responsibility with a vision that goes behind protocol seeking to deepen ties, foster mutual understanding and showcase the richness of Indonesian heritage to a Sri Lankan audience. From trade and tourism to cultural exchange and the role of woman in society, the Ambassador embodies the naunced, multifaceted relationship between two nations with shared histories and aspirations, In this exclusive interview, we explore perspectives that span politics, culture and social development and gain a glimpse into the mindset of a diplomat whose mission is about connection as it is about representation.

(Q) How would you describe the current state of relations between Indonesia and Sri Lanka and what excites you most about its future?

(A) Indonesia and Sri Lanka today enjoy warm, stable, and cooperative relations, rooted in shared history, non-aligned foreign policy traditions, and a common identity as Indian Ocean nations. Politically, the relationship is cordial and pragmatic, with regular diplomatic engagement and mutual support in multilateral forums such as the United Nations, the Non-Aligned Movement, the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), and historically within the Colombo Plan framework. Neither country sees the other as a strategic rival; instead, they approach the relationship with goodwill and respect for sovereignty.

Economically, ties are positive but still under-realized. Trade has been growing gradually, particularly in areas such as textiles, rubber, coconut oil, spices, and pharmaceuticals. There is also cooperation in maritime affairs, fisheries, disaster management, and education, reflecting shared development priorities as archipelagic and coastal states. Through the Colombo Plan, both countries have benefited from and contributed to technical cooperation, capacity building, and human resource development, strengthening institutional and educational linkages across South and Southeast Asia.

Culturally, the relationship is enriched by deep historical links—from ancient Buddhist connections and Indian Ocean trade routes to modern people-to-people exchanges. Educational scholarships and professional training programmes under the Colombo Plan further reinforce these soft-power ties, giving the relationship a natural resilience beyond day-to-day politics.

What excites me most about the future of Indonesia–Sri Lanka relations is the untapped strategic potential of Indian Ocean cooperation. Both countries are well positioned to work together on:

• Maritime security and blue economy initiatives

• Port development and logistics connectivity

• Renewable energy and climate resilience

• Tourism, cultural exchange, and education (including expanded Colombo Plan–style exchanges)

• South–Southeast Asia economic linkages

As global attention increasingly shifts toward the Indo-Pacific and the Indian Ocean, Indonesia and Sri Lanka have a real opportunity to elevate their partnership from friendly to truly strategic—not through military alignment, but through trade, sustainability, human capital development, and inclusive regional leadership. The continued relevance of the Colombo Plan’s cooperative spirit adds an important historical foundation to that future-oriented partnership.

(Q) Indonesia and Sri Lanka share deep maritime and Buddhist histories. How can these be translated into modern diplomatic partnerships ?

(A) Indonesia and Sri Lanka share deep maritime and Buddhist histories that can be translated into modern diplomatic partnerships by:

• Strengthening maritime cooperation, including port connectivity, blue economy initiatives, Indian Ocean security dialogue, and enhanced fisheries cooperation—such as sustainable fishery management, combating illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, aquaculture development, and joint research on marine resources

• Promoting cultural and religious diplomacy, especially through Buddhist heritage exchanges, education, and tourism

• Expanding people-to-people ties, such as academic collaboration, monk exchanges, cultural programs, and technical exchanges in marine and coastal livelihoods

• Deepening multilateral cooperation, particularly within the Indian Ocean Rim Association and the United Nations

By turning shared history into practical cooperation—including stronger collaboration in fisheries and marine sustainability—both countries can build a forward-looking, resilient, and mutually beneficial diplomatic partnership rooted in their shared identity as Indian Ocean nations.

(Q) What are your priorities during your tenure as Indonesia’s envoy to Sri Lanka?

(A) During my tenure as Indonesian’s envoy to Sri Lanka, my priorities would be:

Strengthening Bilateral Relations

Deepen political and diplomatic ties through regular high-level engagements and close coordination between our governments, based on mutual respect and shared regional interests.

Enhancing Economic and Trade Cooperation

Promote two-way trade, investment, and tourism by identifying new opportunities, supporting business partnerships, and encouraging collaboration in sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, maritime industries, and the digital economy.

Promoting People-to-People and Cultural Exchanges

Foster closer connections between Indonesians and Sri Lankans through education, cultural diplomacy, tourism, and cooperation among youth, academics, and civil society.

Cooperation in Regional and Multilateral Forums

Strengthen collaboration within ASEAN–South Asia frameworks, the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), and other multilateral platforms to address shared challenges such as maritime security, climate change, and sustainable development.

Consular Protection and Citizen Services

Ensure the welfare, safety, and rights of Indonesian citizens in Sri Lanka while improving consular services and outreach.

Promoting Peace, Stability, and Sustainable Development

Support dialogue, inclusivity, and cooperation that contribute to regional stability and sustainable economic growth, drawing on Indonesia’s own experiences in democracy and development.

These priorities would guide my efforts to build a strong, forward-looking partnership between Indonesia and Sri Lanka.

(Q) As a woman leading Indonesia’s diplomatic mission, what unique perspectives do you bring to diplomacy?

(A) As a woman leading Indonesia’s diplomatic mission, I bring an inclusive and empathetic approach to diplomacy that values dialogue, collaboration, and mutual respect. I believe effective diplomacy benefits from listening carefully to diverse perspectives and building consensus through understanding and trust.

I also bring a strong commitment to promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment, both within the diplomatic mission and in our broader cooperation with Sri Lanka. By encouraging the participation of women and youth in economic, social, and peace-building initiatives, diplomacy becomes more representative and sustainable.

Most importantly, I bring professionalism, resilience, and Indonesia’s values of tolerance and cooperation, demonstrating that leadership in diplomacy is defined by integrity, capability, and dedication rather than gender.

(Q) How does Indonesia promote women’s participation and leadership on the global stage?

(A) Indonesia promotes women’s participation and leadership on the global stage through a combination of national policies, international advocacy, and practical cooperation.

At the national level, Indonesia has strengthened legal and institutional frameworks to advance gender equality, including policies that support women’s leadership in politics, the civil service, diplomacy, and the economy. Women increasingly serve as ministers, ambassadors, peacekeepers, and senior officials, reflecting Indonesia’s commitment to inclusive leadership.

At the international level, Indonesia actively advocates for the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) agenda in multilateral forums such as the United Nations, ASEAN, and the G20. Indonesia supports the meaningful participation of women in peace processes, conflict prevention, and post-conflict reconstruction, and contributes female peacekeepers and mediators to international missions.

Indonesia also promotes women’s economic empowerment globally by supporting women entrepreneurs, MSMEs, and digital inclusion initiatives through South–South and triangular cooperation, particularly with developing countries.

Through diplomacy, development cooperation, and example, Indonesia demonstrates that empowering women is essential to sustainable peace, economic growth, and effective global governance.

(Q) Indonesia culture from batik and cuisine and cinema has a powerful global appeal. How import is a culture as a diplomatic tool?

(A) Culture is a very important diplomatic tool because it builds understanding and trust in ways that formal diplomacy alone cannot. Through culture—such as batik, cuisine, cinema, music, and traditional arts—Indonesia shares its values of diversity, tolerance, and creativity with the world in a way that is accessible and engaging.

Cultural diplomacy helps people connect at a human level. When people experience Indonesian culture, they gain a deeper appreciation of Indonesia’s history, identity, and pluralistic society. This strengthens people-to-people ties, reduces misunderstandings, and creates a positive foundation for political, economic, and social cooperation.

An increasingly important driver of this cultural diplomacy is the role of the millennial and Gen Z generations. Young Indonesians actively promote batik, cuisine, and cinema through digital platforms, social media campaigns, creative start-ups, and international collaborations. By modernizing traditional batik designs, creating contemporary culinary brands, and producing globally relevant films, they make Indonesian culture more accessible to international audiences. Through influencers, content creators, student exchanges, film festivals, and culinary pop-ups abroad, millennials act as informal cultural ambassadors who bridge local heritage with global trends.

Culture also supports broader diplomatic objectives. It promotes tourism, encourages creative-industry partnerships, and opens opportunities for education and cultural exchange. Indonesian cinema and cuisine, for example, showcase contemporary stories and innovation while preserving tradition, making Indonesia relatable and relevant globally. Digital-native generations amplify this impact by leveraging technology, cross-cultural networks, and entrepreneurial creativity to expand Indonesia’s cultural reach.

In essence, culture is a form of soft power. It allows Indonesia to project a positive image, foster mutual respect, and build long-term relationships. With millennials and young creatives at the forefront—championing batik as sustainable fashion, cuisine as global culinary diplomacy, and cinema as a platform for storytelling—Indonesia’s cultural diplomacy becomes more dynamic, participatory, and influential in shaping global perceptions.

(Q) What drew you to a career in diplomacy and who inspired you along the way?

(A) I was drawn to a career in diplomacy by a strong desire to serve my country while building bridges between nations. From an early stage, I was fascinated by how dialogue, understanding, and cooperation could resolve differences and create opportunities for mutual benefit. Diplomacy offered a path to represent Indonesia’s values, interests, and diversity on the global stage while contributing to peace and development.

Along the way, I was inspired by Indonesia’s senior diplomats and national leaders who demonstrated integrity, professionalism, and a deep commitment to multilateralism and international cooperation. I was also inspired by women leaders—both in Indonesia and internationally—who showed that perseverance, competence, and principled leadership can overcome barriers and create meaningful change.

Equally important were mentors and colleagues who emphasized the importance of listening, cultural sensitivity, and empathy in diplomacy. Their guidance reinforced my belief that effective diplomacy is not only about negotiation, but also about building trust and lasting relationships between people and nations.

(Q) Are there places people or moments in Sri Lanka that have left a lasting impression on you?

(A) Yes, Sri Lanka has left a strong and lasting impression on me through its places, people, and moments. The warmth and generosity of the Sri Lankan people stand out most clearly. In my interactions, I have consistently felt a genuine openness and hospitality that make engagement both meaningful and memorable.

Sri Lanka’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage is also deeply impressive. Visiting historic and sacred sites—such as ancient temples, cultural cities, and places of worship—reflects the country’s deep sense of history, resilience, and diversity. These places convey values of tolerance and coexistence that resonate strongly with Indonesia’s own multicultural identity.

Equally memorable are moments of everyday interaction: conversations with community leaders, students, artists, and businesspeople who are optimistic about the future and committed to rebuilding and progress. These encounters highlight Sri Lanka’s strength, dignity, and potential, and they reinforce my commitment to further strengthening the friendship between Indonesia and Sri Lanka.

(Q) How do you balance the demands of high level diplomacy with personal well being?

(A) Balancing the demands of high-level diplomacy with personal well-being requires deliberate focus, discipline, and self-awareness. Diplomacy often involves long hours, complex negotiations, and high-stakes decision-making, so maintaining mental, emotional, and physical health is essential to perform effectively.

I prioritize time management and set boundaries to ensure that I have moments for rest, reflection, and personal interests, even amidst a busy schedule. Practices such as regular exercise, reading, and staying connected with family and friends help me recharge and maintain perspective.

Equally important is cultivating a strong support system within the mission, where teamwork, delegation, and mutual trust allow responsibilities to be shared effectively. Mindfulness and self-reflection also help me approach challenges calmly and make decisions with clarity.

Ultimately, maintaining personal well-being is not just about self-care—it is integral to being a resilient, attentive, and effective diplomat, capable of representing Indonesia with focus, energy, and dedication.

(Q) What message would you like to share with Sri Lankan about Indonesia and its people?

(A) I would like to share with the people of Sri Lanka that Indonesia is a nation rich in diversity, culture, and natural beauty, and that its people are warm, resilient, and welcoming. Indonesians value harmony, tolerance, and cooperation, which are reflected in our traditions, arts, and everyday life.

Indonesia is committed to building strong friendships and partnerships with Sri Lanka, grounded in mutual respect and shared interests. We welcome cultural, educational, and economic exchanges, and we hope that more Sri Lankans will experience the richness of Indonesian culture, cuisine, and landscapes first hand.

Above all, I want the people of Sri Lanka to know that Indonesia sees them as close partners and friends. Together, our nations can grow, collaborate, and create opportunities for prosperity, peace, and mutual understanding in the region and beyond.