UNAIR NEWS – Probo Darono Yakti, a lecturer in International Relations at Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR), has addressed the recent criticism from the United States regarding Indonesia’s QRIS (Quick Response Code Indonesian Standard) digital payment system. He argues that Indonesia’s efforts to develop QRIS represent a critical assertion of digital economic sovereignty, standing in opposition to the global payment infrastructure largely dominated by Western nations, particularly the U.S.
Yakti, who also serves as a researcher at UNAIR’s Center for Global Strategic Studies (CSGS), emphasized that QRIS is part of a broader national initiative to establish an independent payment system. This aligns with the National Payment Gateway (GPN), which aims to reduce dependency on foreign platforms like Visa and Mastercard. “QRIS is entirely managed by Bank Indonesia, reflecting the country’s commitment to controlling its own financial transactions,” he explained.
He further stated that U.S. objections to QRIS highlight the economic dominance that Western powers continue to exert over developing countries. He argued that the U.S. often frames global financial systems in a zero-sum context, making it difficult for nations like Indonesia to secure equitable influence.
“This is a major test for Indonesia—especially under a government that values national sovereignty. The U.S. repeatedly accuses Indonesia of being unfair, while insisting that global payments must go through Visa and Mastercard,” he added.
Resisting U.S. pressure
Yakti stressed that Indonesia must adopt a calculated economic diplomacy strategy to avoid being drawn into geopolitical tensions with the U.S. He urged the government to strengthen partnerships with other nations and promote concrete economic collaborations, such as commodity exchanges and value-added manufacturing.
“As a strategy, Indonesia should pursue a dual- strategy approach. While it’s unwise to sever ties with the U.S., it’s equally risky to rely solely on a single global power. Strengthening cooperation with non-Western partners is essential, as long as it aligns with national interests,” he said.
Yakti also encouraged Indonesia to revisit the spirit of President Soekarno’s vision of ASEAN-African solidarity. He cited the potential for economic collaboration with African nations—such as Ghana, known for its cocoa industry—which could complement Indonesia’s chocolate processing sector. Additionally, Indonesia could deepen its engagement with the BRICS economic bloc, of which it is now a member.
However, Yakti warned that closer involvement with BRICS could trigger U.S. sensitivity. He advised Indonesia to practice skillful and strategic diplomacy to avoid trade conflicts and maintain economic stability.
“Indonesia must be smart—build strategic alliances, strengthen its bargaining position, and always prepare exit strategies under pressure. Economic sovereignty isn’t just something to claim—it must be proven through deliberate action,” Yakti concluded.
Author: Panca Ezza Aisal Saputra
Editor: Ragil Kukuh Imanto
