Academia
As Prime Minister Modi visits Jakarta, Indonesia must seize India’s $9 billion Great Nicobar Project not as a geopolitical threat, but as the ultimate catalyst to finally unlock Sabang’s untapped economic potential.
A tourist watches a wild green turtle (Chelonia mydas) from close range on May 15, 2025, at the Batee Tokong dive site in Iboih waters off Sabang, Aceh.
(Antara/Khalis Surry)
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s official visit to Indonesia comes at a defining moment for the future of the eastern Indian Ocean. As the leaders of the world’s third- and fourth-most populous democracies convene to discuss trade, investment, defense cooperation and regional security, their talks reflect a rapidly maturing strategic partnership.Yet one highly consequential issue deserves far greater attention than it has so far received: How should Indonesia position Sabang as India moves forward with its US$9 billion Great Nicobar Project?
