Diplomat Talk: Bambang’s Vision for Regional Dialogue
For Bambang Aditya Warman, journalism is more than just reporting—it is a bridge to diplomacy. As a news producer, presenter, and business development professional at Southeast Asia Today (SEA Today), Bambang has dedicated his career to exploring the intersection of diplomacy and media. In 2023, Bambang joined the Australia Awards Short Course on Foreign Policy Strategic Equilibrium in the Indo-Pacific.
“The program exceeded my expectations,” Bambang said. “It offered not just theoretical insights, but practical case studies and engaging discussions that sharpened my critical thinking.”
Through the program, Bambang gained a comprehensive understanding of the Indo-Pacific landscape and Australia's partnerships with ASEAN.
Creating Diplomat Talk
As an Award Project, Bambang conceptualised Diplomat Talk, a one-hour segment talk show on SEA Today that bridges the gap between diplomacy and media. Featuring ambassadors, diplomats, and policymakers, the program aims to foster open discussions on regional and global issues.
After returning to Indonesia in 2023, Bambang attended a dinner hosted by Ambassador Penny Williams at her residence. This setting allowed him to discuss his vision for Diplomat Talk and its potential to bridge public diplomacy through media. He was able to organise an interview the Ambassador which aired June 2024, as part of Indonesia and Australia’s 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations.
Establish Foreign Respondent in Pivotal Cities in Australia
Through connections and knowledge Bambang gained during the Australia Awards short course SEA Today established correspondent offices in Canberra, Sydney, and Melbourne. This idea was rooted in Bambang’s experience during the short course, where he realised the significance of Australia’s role in the Indo-Pacific and the importance of timely, accurate reporting in fostering mutual understanding. Connecting with the Indonesian diaspora who shared an interest in journalism and diplomacy through the short course also assisted in recruiting correspondents to represent SEA Today in key Australian cities.
The presence of SEA Today correspondents in Australia allows the channel to cover significant events, such as trade delegations, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic visits, in real-time. These efforts enhance public understanding of the bilateral relationship and create opportunities for state-owned enterprises in Indonesia to explore partnerships with their Australian counterparts.
“Having representatives in Australia allows us to report on events in real time and ensures we stay connected to developments impacting the region,” Bambang explained.
Bambang aspires to expand Diplomat Talk into a regional platform, featuring discussions with experts and policymakers from across Southeast Asia and beyond. His vision is to foster deeper conversations on international relations, explore shared challenges, and identify opportunities for collaboration among ASEAN countries and their partners.
“I want to create a space where regional leaders and experts can share their perspectives, not just for policymakers but for the public to understand how diplomacy impacts everyday lives,” he concluded.
