Anies Baswedan Ignites New Vision for Indonesia with Diaspora in Germany
Duisburg, October 24, 2025 – 
Former Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan recently embarked on a significant visit to Germany, where he engaged deeply with the Indonesian diaspora and local German officials. His journey marked a meaningful chapter in strengthening Indonesia’s ties abroad and igniting fresh enthusiasm for the country’s future, especially through the vibrant and growing community of Indonesians living in Europe.
At Duisburg Essen University, Anies addressed a large assembly of over 300 attendees composed of students, professionals, and diaspora leaders. In an inspiring keynote speech themed “Mengukir Masa Depan Indonesia di Tanah Rantau” (Carving Indonesia’s Future From Abroad), he underscored the unique role the diaspora plays—not only as cultural ambassadors but as essential partners in Indonesia’s development. He highlighted the special vantage point that living overseas provides: a clearer, often more critical perspective on Indonesia’s strengths and challenges. “We are not just citizens abroad; we are an extended family of the nation,” Anies remarked, calling on the diaspora to embrace their important responsibility to contribute actively to Indonesia’s progress.
Anies spoke candidly about the challenges faced by Indonesians living far from home—the longing, the cultural balancing acts, and the constant effort to maintain connection with the motherland. Yet, he transformed this narrative of distance into one of opportunity. He urged diaspora members to leverage their experiences abroad to build bridges of knowledge, innovation, and collaboration that can benefit Indonesia on multiple fronts.
The conversation delved into ways the diaspora can influence Indonesia’s educational and economic ecosystems. Anies emphasized the importance of exchanging ideas, sharing expertise, and creating networks that transcend borders. “Education is a two-way street,” he explained. “As alumni and professionals abroad, the diaspora can bring back not just knowledge, but new ways of thinking that can inspire institutional reforms and entrepreneurial ventures at home.”
In another pivotal moment of his German visit, Anies met with city officials in Essen to explore practical urban challenges and solutions. Discussions focused on sustainability, public transportation, waste management, and the role of civic participation in creating livable cities. The German approach to these issues, characterized by citizen empowerment and integrated policies, left a strong impression on Anies. He expressed optimism that such lessons could be tailored to meet the growing needs of Indonesian cities like Jakarta, which face rapid urbanization and complex socio-environmental dynamics.
The dialogue with German local government leaders was more than an exchange of ideas—it was a reinforcement of the possibilities inherent in international municipal cooperation. Anies envisioned partnerships that go beyond inspiration, toward actionable programs that harness technology, governance expertise, and community engagement to elevate the quality of urban life in Indonesia.
Throughout the visit, Anies’s interactions were marked by warmth and a shared sense of purpose. Diaspora participants recounted their experiences of navigating dual identities, striving professionally while nurturing their Indonesian roots. For many, Anies’s presence and message rekindled a deep pride and motivation to contribute despite physical distance.
His call to action was clear: Indonesia remains a land of immense opportunity where challenges exist alongside untapped potential. Optimism, Anies insisted, must be the guiding force—not only for those within the country but for Indonesians everywhere. The diaspora’s role is central in this narrative, as innovators, connectors, and custodians of culture and ambition.
The visit concluded on a hopeful note with plans to deepen ties between Indonesia and the diaspora community in Germany, fostering ongoing dialogue and cooperation. Anies Baswedan’s journey highlighted how through collective effort, shared knowledge, and a strong sense of belonging, Indonesians abroad can help carve a brighter, more inclusive future for their homeland.