This special series ‘SBY’s tears: From managing crisis to managing process in Australia-Indonesia relations since the fall of Suharto’ explores the history of Indonesia since the fall of Suharto and Australia’s part in it through the eyes and experience of its ambassadors to Jakarta over this period. The series will look at democracy, counterterrorism, natural disasters and economic developments, and how Australia’s relationship with Indonesia has changed over the years.

In this episode, David Engel, Head of ASPI’s Indonesia program, and former ASPI Research Intern Hillary Mansour speak to John McCarthy AO, who was Ambassador to Indonesia from 1997 to 2001. They discuss some of the major developments during his time in the post, including the fall of Suharto, President Habibie and the Reformasi, East Timor, the election of Gus Dur and former prime minister John Howard’s relationship with the country’s leaders.

Guests (in order of appearance):

David Engel: https://www.aspi.org.au/bio/david-engel

John McCarthy AO: https://asialink.unimelb.edu.au/about-us/leadership-team/john-mccarthy-ao

Hillary Mansour: https://www.aspi.org.au/bio/hillary-mansour