Ali Maksum, PhD

Scopus Publications

Sake as Cultural Diplomacy: A Soft Power Approach to Japan’s Nation Branding in Europe
F. Rafiqi, A. Maksum
Russian Japanology Review, 2026
This study examines the strategic role of sake as an instrument of cultural diplomacy within the framework of trade relations between Japan and Europe, using a theoretical approach that combines the concepts of soft power, gastrodiplomacy, and nation branding. Sake, as a traditional Japanese fermented beverage rooted in the spiritual and social practices of society, has undergone a reorientation of its function from domestic consumption to a symbol of national cultural identity promoted internationally. Through the Cool Japan policy, the Japanese government actively positions sake as a key element in public diplomacy, linking cultural heritage with export trade strategies.The implementation of the EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) since 2018, which includes geographical indication (GI) protection, provides additional legitimacy for the authenticity of sake in the European market. Promotional strategies involving culinary festivals, cross-industry collaborations, and product narratives emphasizing aesthetic value, origins, and traditional production techniques have successfully enhanced European public perception of sake and, more broadly, of Japan. Export data shows significant growth, with France, the United Kingdom, and Germany contributing the most, indicating the success of this approach in expanding market penetration. However, this dynamic is not without criticism, including the commodification of cultural values, exclusion of small producers, and the risk of reducing the spiritual meaning of sake in a commercialized context.Therefore, this study emphasizes the importance of cultural diplomacy that not only highlights visual appeal and market narratives but also commits to preserving values and the participation of local cultural communities. In conclusion, sake diplomacy offers an intriguing model for the integration of culture and economy in international relations, demonstrating that cultural products can serve as an effective means to build cross-national relations rooted in empathy, experience, and appreciation for the uniqueness of traditions.
Does Bilateral Meeting-related Information Reflect Foreign Policy? The Case of Indonesia under the Jokowi Administration
Ali Maksum, Mohammad Reevany Bustami
International Area Studies Review, 2026
Analysis the UNHCR's MHPPS program in handling refugee mental health through the memory and world politics approach in Indonesia
Fanesa Angeli, Ali Maksum
Multidisciplinary Reviews, 2025
This study examines the role of the UNHCR’s Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) program in addressing the mental health challenges of refugees, through the lens of memory and world politics. It examines how collective memories shaped by the trauma of displacement affect refugees’ mental health, and how this impacts refugees’ postrecovery in third countries. By applying a world politics approach, this study highlights the role of international relations, policies and geopolitical dynamics in shaping the effectiveness of mental health support for refugees. The findings suggest that while the MHPPS has made significant strides in providing psychological support, the impact of collective memories and the political environment of refugees in host countries still hinder the healing process. The study highlights the need for more context-sensitive interventions that consider both the emotional wounds experienced by refugees and the political realities surrounding displacement. In conclusion, this study advocates a more integrated approach to mental health support by strengthening partnerships between international, national and local actors to create a more inclusive and sustainable framework for supporting refugee mental health.
Business for Peace in Indonesia: University Scholarships for Afghan and Palestinian Refugees and Their Role in Community Development
Fanesa Angeli, Ali Maksum
Multidisciplinary Journal of Educational Research, 2025
This article examines the role of university scholarship programs in Indonesia as a form of "business for peace," focusing specifically on their impact on Afghan and Palestinian refugees. The primary aim of the article is to explore how Indonesian higher education institutions, particularly private universities, contribute to community development and social responsibility through the inclusion of refugee students. Using a qualitative approach, the study analyzes scholarship initiatives implemented by select Indonesian universities and assesses their broader social implications. The findings suggest that such initiatives not only provide educational opportunities for displaced populations but also foster intercultural understanding, institutional responsibility, and local community engagement. However, the study also highlights the limited involvement of public policy and the dominant role of private sector initiatives in addressing refugee inclusion. This article contributes to ongoing discussions on refugee education, peacebuilding, and the potential of higher education as a driver of social cohesion in host countries.
Representing National vs Personal Agenda: Media Framing of Indonesia’s G20 Presidency in 2022
Maksum Ali
International Organisations Research Journal, 2025
This study aims to examine how Indonesia’s national interests were represented during its G20 Presidency 2022 through media framing, specifically investigating the balance between national and personal political agendas. By conducting a content analysis of online news articles from seven major Indonesian newspapers—Antara, CNBC Indonesia, CNN Indonesia, Detik, Kompas, Republika, and Tempo—the study explores patterns in media representing and issue prioritization. A total of 753 articles were initially collected, with 724 articles analysed after a careful selection process using MS Excel for manual coding. Findings reveal that Antara, the government-funded media, produced the highest volume of G20-related news articles among the sampled outlets. The study covered primarily centred on economic and socio-cultural themes, with less focus on pressing domestic issues such as inflation and public welfare, despite their direct relevance to public interests. This research highlights how national interests were framed through media narratives, often amplifying state-led success stories while minimizing critical perspectives on domestic challenges. Moreover, the study reveals how media dynamics – especially government-linked outlets – align closely with the administration’s messaging, raising concerns about political influence, limited freedom of expression, and media bias in Indonesia’s public discourse. These findings contribute to the broader understanding of how media framing can shape public perception of national interests during international events, particularly in contexts where political influences media narratives
Forests in Crisis: Post-Coup Deforestation and the Collapse of Environmental Governance in Myanmar
Ali Maksum
Iop Conference Series Earth and Environmental Science, 2025
Since the military coup in Myanmar in 2021, the country has experienced a sharp rise in deforestation, particularly in regions such as Kachin, Shan, Karen, and Tanintharyi. The collapse of democratic institutions has dismantled community-based forest governance and enabled the unchecked exploitation of natural resources. This study examines how the post-coup political crisis has contributed to the breakdown of environmental oversight and accelerated forest degradation. Employing a qualitative approach, it draws on secondary data from satellite imagery, environmental NGO reports, and investigative journalism. The findings reveal that military authorities have replaced regulatory frameworks with extractive strategies, prioritizing short-term resource sales—especially to China—amid international sanctions. This paper argues that deforestation in Myanmar is not merely an ecological issue but a profound governance crisis. Under the junta, forest exploitation is closely tied to state survival, while environmental activists and local communities face increasing threats to their safety. This study sheds new light on the dynamics of Myanmar after the coup, showing how the country’s deforestation during authoritarian control is a major threat to environment and human security.
Indonesia’s Responses to “De-risking” China Vis-à-Vis the United States and Its Allies: The Nexus of Domestic and International Interest
Ali Maksum
Unpacking De Risking China in the Indo Pacific Region Origin Evolution and Variations, 2025
According to multiple survey results, the Indonesian domestic voice perceives China as a threat. However, the elites of Indonesia perceive China’s geopolitics differently. China has been described as both an opportunity and a threat concurrently, which sometimes yields ambiguity. How does Indonesia remain committed to pursuing a neutral strategic policy in response to the China–US rivalry? This study attempts to uncover Indonesia’s strategic responses to the geopolitical phenomenon of “de-risking” in the context of its relations with China and the United States, along with its allies. The research delves into the intricate interplay between Indonesia’s domestic concerns and its international interests, examining how these factors influence the country’s approach to balancing relations with China, the United States, and their respective allies. This study contends that Indonesia maintains a “free and active” neutrality foreign policy doctrine in response to the de-risking dynamics of the United States and its allies toward China. This strategic approach exists within the realm of “challenges and opportunities”, embodying an element of ambiguity. The complexity arises from varying domestic responses in Indonesia, with both support and opposition emerging in response to Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) policies. By investigating the nexus between domestic imperatives and international considerations, the study aims to shed light on the nuanced decision-making processes that shape Indonesia’s foreign policy in the evolving landscape of global power dynamics. Additionally, this study is expected to enrich the body of knowledge, especially pertaining to Indonesian foreign policy vis-à-vis the complexity of major power rivalries. Therefore, this chapter is divided into four sections, namely, introduction, theoretical framework, discussion and implications, and ends with recommendations for future research.
Indonesian migrant workers’ multi-track diplomacy for education rights in Penang, Malaysia
Ali Maksum
Diaspora Indigenous and Minority Education, 2025
Despite negative perceptions, this study reveals that Indonesian migrant workers make significant humanitarian contributions and support Indonesia’s education programmes. While Indonesia and Malaysia have reached agreements to provide basic educational facilities for the children of migrant workers, grassroots efforts face significant challenges due to limited government support. This study aimed to examine how Indonesian migrant workers utilize multi-track diplomacy to overcome these challenges and advocate for their children’s educational rights. Using a qualitative approach, data were collected through semi-structured interviews in May-June 2024 with six participants, including an Indonesian student and five representatives from migrant worker organizations (PERMAI and Muhammadiyah) in Penang, Malaysia. The results showed that migrant workers struggled with funding, securing classrooms, developing curricula, and managing educational initiatives. Grassroots efforts (track 4 diplomacy) are crucial but constrained by limited resources and support, while high-level diplomacy of Indonesia (track 1) has not sufficiently empowered these initiatives.
Migration Flows from ASEAN: State Regulations and the Role of Mafias
Surwandono, Ali Maksum
Global Migration Mafias States and Hybrid Warfare, 2025
Turkey's Revisionist Foreign Policy in Middle East Politics: Strategic Positioning amid the Iran-Saudi Rivalry
Ahmad Sahide, Ahmet Ates, Ali Maksum
Obrana A Strategie, 2025
This article analyses Turkey’s foreign policy in the context of the ongoing rivalry between Iran and Saudi Arabia, using power transition theory as its conceptual framework. According to this theory, states are classified as either status quo or revisionist powers. The study argues that Turkey has increasingly adopted a revisionist orientation in regional Middle Eastern politics, positioning itself as an autonomous and pragmatic actor. Unlike Iran and Saudi Arabia, whose foreign policies are largely shaped by ideological commitments, Turkey’s approach is characterised by strategic flexibility and adaptive pragmatism. The findings suggest that Turkey's evolving regional posture is rooted in its broader ambition to expand influence and redefine regional dynamics in its favour. This research contributes to the understanding of emerging multipolarity in the Middle East and offers insights into Turkey’s recalibrated regional engagement amid great-power competition.
Indonesian Defence Policy Under Jokowi Administration: Continuity or New Direction?
Geopolitics Quarterly, 2024
Does conflict influence the agriculture sector? Evidence from Myanmara's Civil War
Ali Maksum, Risky Fauzi Widodo, Nanang Husni Mubarak
E3s Web of Conferences, 2024
Formulating Innovative Policies for Advancing Gender Equality in Rural Development: A Focus on the Indonesian Agriculture Sector
Nur Azizah, Ali Maksum, Adi Bin Jafar, Nurhadini Zaqiah Julianisa
E3s Web of Conferences, 2024
Formulating Innovative Policies for Advancing Gender Equality in Rural Development: A Focus on the Agricultural Sector in Indonesia
Nur Azizah, Ali Maksum, Adi Bin Jafar, Nurhadini Zaqiah Julianisa
E3s Web of Conferences, 2024
Paradiplomacy in the border: Overcoming forest fire in West Kalimantan – Sarawak border through the Sosek Malindo cooperation
Sean Yagoza, Ali Maksum
Multidisciplinary Reviews, 2024
Navigating Global Challenges and National Interest: The Discourse of Indonesian President Joko Widodo at the 2022 G20 Summit
Thammasat Review, 2024
THE RODRIGO DUTERTE POLICY TO BANGSAMORO IN THE SOUTHERN PHILIPPINES
Ali Maksum, , Diar Abdi Hindiarto, Reevany Bustami, , and
Revista Unisci, 2024
Indonesian media framing against Trump in the 2020 presidential election
Ahmad Sahide, Misran Misran, Ali Maksum
Multidisciplinary Reviews, 2024
CHINESE MIGRANT WORKERS IN INDONESIA: A CONTESTED SECURITY ISSUE
Ali Maksum
Austral Brazilian Journal of Strategy and International Relations, 2024
Indonesia Should Recognise Israel? The Jokowi’s Last Dance to Host the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup
Ali Maksum, Sitti Zarina Alimuddin, Ahmad Sahide, Muchammad Farid
International Area Studies Review, 2024
Malaysia and the Balkan conflict, 1992-1995
Wan Shawaluddin Wan Hassan, Ramli Dollah, Diana Peters, Adi Jafar, Ali Maksum
Journal of Contemporary Central and Eastern Europe, 2024
Food and International Relations on digital discourse during #WorldFoodSafetyDay 2023
Sitti Zarina Alimuddin, Ali Maksum, Reevany Bustami
E3s Web of Conferences, 2023
Agriculture and International Organization in Indonesia: The Twitter Analysis of FAO Indonesia
Ali Maksum, Sitti Zarina Alimuddin, Ahmad Sahide, Ali Muhammad, Hilman Mahmud Akmal Ma’arif
E3s Web of Conferences, 2023
The current developments and achievements of Taiwan's humanistic soft power on Indonesian migrant workers
Ali Maksum
Taiwan and Southeast Asia Soft Power and Hard Truths Facing China S Ascendancy, 2023
Social Media and Information Dissemination of Indonesia as G20 Presidency
Ali Maksum, Ahmad Sahide, Tan Bee Wah, Hilman Mahmud Akmal Ma’arif, Sitti Zarina Alimuddin
Communications in Computer and Information Science, 2023
The optimization of social media usage by BP2MI for Indonesian migrant worker families in rural areas
Ali Maksum, Ahmad Sahide, Nur Azizah, Sidik Jatmika, Muhammad Afif
E3s Web of Conferences, 2022
Indonesia–Malaysia relations from below: Indonesian migrants and the role of identity
Ali Maksum
South East Asia Research, 2022
THE INDONESIA-AUSTRALIA PARTNERSHIP TO COUNTER RADICALISM AND TERRORISM ISSUES IN INDONESIA
Revista Unisci, 2022
WHAT DO TERRORISTS THINK? ANALYZING THE BALI BOMBERS’ MEMOIRS
Revista Unisci, 2022
Indonesian post-migrant workers: A challenging problem for human security
Ali Maksum
Social Sciences and Humanities Open, 2021
Indonesian migrant workers in Taiwan: The state dilemma and people’s realities
Ali Maksum, Ching-lung Tsay, Ali Muhammad
Jurnal Ilmu Sosial Dan Ilmu Politik, 2020
Indonesian terrorism: Wahabism and the ‘imagined caliphate’
Journal of Social Political and Economic Studies, 2020
Enhancing women contribution in peace, conflict resolution and security agenda: Indonesian female peacekeepers in the United Nations peacekeeping operations (garuda contingent-konga)
Nur Azizah, , Ali Maksum, Muhammad Ammar Hidayahtulloh, , and
Revista Unisci, 2020
Mainstreaming realism paradigm in handling illegal immigrants in Malaysia
Surwandono, , Fitriani Nengsi, Ali Maksum, , and
Revista Unisci, 2020
Indonesia´s foreign policy towards Malaysia in the post soeharto era: A case study of ambalat dispute
Tulus Warsito, , Ali Maksum, Surwandono, Ratih Herningtyas, , , and
Revista Unisci, 2020
THE CHINESE MIGRANT WORKERS IN INDONESIA: THE LOCAL AND MIGRANT WORKERS CONTEXT
Ali Maksum, Ahmad Sahide
Jurnal Ilmiah Peuradeun, 2019
An early warning information system for social and religious conflict in Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Surwandono Surwandono, Sidik Jatmika, Ali Maksum
International Journal of Interdisciplinary Social and Community Studies, 2019
Media liberalization and its impact on Indonesian democratic society: Human security perspectives
Ali Maksum, Surwandono, Nur Azizah
International Journal of Interdisciplinary Social Sciences, 2019
Indonesia-Malaysia tourism relations from the perspective of foreign policy
International Journal of Innovation Creativity and Change, 2019
Suffer to survive: The Indonesian illegal workers experiences in Malaysia and Japan
Journal of Social Research and Policy, 2017
The 1965 coup and reformasi 1998: Two critical moments in Indonesia-Malaysia relations during and after the Cold War
Ali Maksum, Reevany Bustami
Springerplus, 2014
The tension between Indonesia-Malaysia in the pendet dance issue
Kajian Malaysia, 2014

Ali Maksum, PhD

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