IR for Business Academy 3.0: How Do Internationalists Play a Role? with Hilmi H. Kartasasmita and Sherly Susilo

Hilmi H. Kartasasmita, Deputy Head of the Global Engagement Office at the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KADIN), and Sherly Susilo, Policy Manager at the CEO Office of Sintesa Group; Director of Investment & International Trade at Indonesian Employers Association (APINDO), speak at International Relations for Business Academy 3.0, moderated by Angelo Wijaya of Foreign Policy Talks. (Photo: Foreign Policy Talks)

The fourth session of the International Relations for Business Academy 3.0, titled “Inside the Business Chamber: How Do Internationalists Play a Role?”, featured a comprehensive discussion on the practical realities of economic diplomacy, trade negotiations, and government delivery with Hilmi H. Kartasasmita, Deputy Head of the Global Engagement Office at Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KADIN) and Sherly Susilo, Policy Manager (CEO Office) at Sintesa Group and Director of Investment & International Trade at Indonesian Employers Association (APINDO). The session was hosted by Angelo Wijaya from Foreign Policy Talks.

The dialogue opened by addressing the complexities of executing public policy and delivery assurance. Mentors reflected on the rigorous demands of translating high level political directives into tangible outcomes. In an era marked by geopolitical fragmentation and shifting global alliances, the conversation highlighted a growing premium on professionals who can synthesize disparate information, analyze complex geopolitical risks, and deliver actionable strategic advice rather than merely relaying data.

Hilmi and Sherly, sharing their extensive experience in international trade and business advocacy, emphasized the profound effects of unilateral global policies, inflation, and shifting market access on domestic industries. They underscored that the business community fundamentally relies on regulatory certainty and policy consistency. When governments frequently alter trajectories, it creates risk environments that deter long term investment and complicate supply chain strategies.

During the interactive Q&A, the discussion pivoted to how emerging professionals can effectively engage with senior decision makers. The panel stressed that youth alone does not guarantee influence; young leaders must earn their platform by conducting rigorous preparation, understanding the core interests of their counterparts, and presenting clear value propositions. The speakers also noted the strategic necessity of maintaining trade agreements with a diverse array of countries to ensure supply chain resilience during global disruptions.

The session concluded with reflections on Indonesia’s economic and diplomatic future. Mentors noted that realizing the nation’s potential before its demographic window narrows requires steadfast policy execution and open markets. By drawing on its historical legacy of regional leadership and tolerance, Indonesia remains uniquely positioned to serve as a stabilizing and active force for good in an increasingly unpredictable global landscape.

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