Indonesian Ambassador visits FHNW – Opportunities for Strengthened Cooperation between Switzerland and Indonesia
For the Seminar in Switzerland of the International Student Projects, the FHNW School of Business was delighted to welcome the Ambassador of Indonesia H.E. Mr. Ngurah Swajaya.
On Tuesday, 10 February 2026, the FHNW School of Business was delighted to welcome H.E. Mr. Ngurah Swajaya, Ambassador of the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia, for a special visit during the 11th seminar week of the exploreASEAN Student Project.
The event, where his Excellency provided first-hand insights into the economic and political relations between Indonesia and Switzerland, offered participants a unique opportunity to gain some valuable understanding of the importance of Indonesia and the relations between the two countries from a high-ranking diplomatic representative.
Indonesia as a Dynamic Engine of the ASEAN Region
In his speech, Ambassador Swajaya emphasised the important role of Indonesia within the ASEAN region, as the country accounts for the largest share of the region’s economy. Particularly striking, he noted, is that the trade volume between ASEAN and China has already reached the same scale as trade between the EU and the USA, and this within just ten years. This underlines the exceptional dynamism of the region.
Strong partnerships, in his view, are built on mutual understanding, something the two countries already share. A decisive factor in Indonesia’s economic growth is the so-called demographic bonus: since 2014, more than 50 percent of the population has been young, working-age individuals, driving economic expansion.
The Ambassador reminded the audience that Switzerland and Indonesia have historically enjoyed very good cooperation. Currently, Switzerland is Indonesia’s second-largest investor after the Netherlands. Both countries can gain considerably by expanding their cooperation strategically, Swajaya stressed. While Indonesia possesses extensive natural resources, Switzerland can contribute experience, technology, and capital. This combination offers excellent opportunities for economic diversification and strengthening of both economies, particularly in light of changing global conditions.
The Ambassador further highlighted that Indonesia remains committed to multilateralism, international law, and dialogue, values it shares with Switzerland and which are of special importance in the current geopolitical context.
Open Q&A and Personal Exchanges
Following the inspiring speech, the floor was opened for questions. Students took the chance to ask in-depth questions about Indonesia’s economic outlook, its role in international organisations, and bilateral trade relations. The Ambassador answered with openness and expertise, creating an engaging atmosphere in the room.
The visit of the Indonesian Ambassador was an exceptionally enriching experience for the students and a highlight of the International Student Projects Week 2026. The well-organised event by the students (exploreASEAN project management teams), the depth of the speech, and the friendly and open-minded personality of H.E. Mr. Ngurah Swajaya made this day a complete success.