Social Innovation Program

DPD RI Delegation Visit to the Sasakawa Peace Foundation

July 10, 2025

On July 7, 2025, the Sasakawa Peace Foundation (SPF) had the privilege of hosting a distinguished delegation from the House of Regional Representatives of the Republic of Indonesia (DPD RI) at its headquarters in Tokyo. Held under the theme “Enhancing Japan–Indonesia Bilateral Cooperation for Regional Stability and Development,” the visit marked a significant milestone in strengthening strategic ties between Japan and Indonesia, particularly in the areas of regional diplomacy, inclusive development, and peacebuilding.

The Indonesian delegation was led by Vice Chair Mirah Midadan Fahmid of the Committee of Parliamentary Cooperation (BKSP), accompanied by 14 senators representing diverse provinces across Indonesia, and supported by the Embassy of Indonesia in Tokyo. Representing SPF, Dr. Nobuko Kayashima, Executive Director, welcomed the delegation and introduced the foundation’s mission and key initiatives in Indonesia.

In her opening remarks, Dr. Kayashima reaffirmed SPF’s commitment to fostering international cooperation through its unique “Sasakawa-style” public diplomacy. She highlighted SPF’s ongoing efforts in inclusive economic development, peacebuilding, and maritime sustainability. Vice Chair Fahmid responded with heartfelt appreciation for SPF’s warm hospitality and expressed a strong desire to build bridges of mutual understanding and collaboration, emphasizing the strategic importance of bilateral cooperation in addressing regional challenges and promoting equitable growth.

SPF Initiatives in Indonesia

The discussion began with a comprehensive overview of SPF’s ongoing projects in Indonesia, reflecting the foundation’s dedication to inclusive development and regional peace.

Dr. Dissa Ahdanisa, Programme Officer for the Social Innovation Program, introduced SPF’s Inclusive Economy Project in Eastern Indonesia, which aims to empower underserved communities through sustainable economic models and social entrepreneurship.
Mr. Jin Fujimoto, Programme Officer for the Peacebuilding Program, presented SPF’s Peacebuilding Initiatives in post-conflict areas across various Indonesian provinces, emphasizing the importance of local resilience, dialogue, and community-based approaches to conflict resolution.
Ms. Ayuko Takahashi, Research Fellow in the Japan-U.S. and Security Studies Unit, discussed SPF’s role in facilitating Security Dialogues and Defense Exchanges between Japan and Asian countries, including Indonesia. Her presentation underscored the strategic importance of regional cooperation in maintaining peace and stability.

Regional Security and Sustainable Development

The second session focused on the intersection of regional security and sustainable development, exploring how stability serves as a foundation for inclusive growth, investment, and trade.

Moderated by Ms. Ayuko Takahashi, the session featured insights from Mr. Tsuneo Watanabe, Senior Fellow at SPF
and Mr. Yasuhiro Kawakami, Director of the Japan-U.S. and Security Studies Unit.

Both experts emphasized the vital role of people-to-people exchange and information sharing in promoting regional stability. Their remarks highlighted the need for collaborative frameworks that integrate security policy with local development strategies.

The session also included a presentation from the DPD RI delegation titled “Enhancing Japan–Indonesia Bilateral Cooperation for Regional Stability and Local Development.” The remarks reinforced the shared vision of both institutions to build resilient communities and foster inclusive regional partnerships. The presence of such a diverse group of senators from across Indonesia was noted as a reflection of the country’s rich regional perspectives and the potential for meaningful cooperation.

Closing Remarks and Future Outlook

The visit concluded with heartfelt remarks from Dr. Atsushi Sunami, President of the Sasakawa Peace Foundation, who expressed his deep appreciation for the DPD RI delegation’s visit and reaffirmed SPF’s commitment to continued engagement in Indonesia.

Dr. Sunami emphasized the importance of cultivating long-term friendships and mutual understanding between Japanese and Indonesian leaders, particularly through collaborative efforts that address regional development, peacebuilding, and inclusive growth.

Looking ahead, SPF is committed to continuing its work in Indonesia and strengthening its collaboration with Indonesian policymakers and institutions, including the DPD RI, with the shared goal of building a more peaceful, resilient, and inclusive Asia.

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