By the Editor, Golf and Beyond | July 6, 2025
The sun was soft over Kurmitola’s fairway as we teed off one crisp morning. I had the honor of sharing the green with a distinguished friend—Mr. Heru Hartanto Subolo, former Indonesian Ambassador to Bangladesh and a key figure behind facilitating Indonesian high-level visits and delegations today.
But beyond the game, our conversation unfolded into a rich and revealing exchange about diplomacy, trade, and the investment climate between our two nations.
INTERVIEW
Editor: Mr. Heru, it’s always a pleasure playing a round of golf with you. From diplomacy to business, Bangladesh and Indonesia share so much in common. Where do you think we stand now in terms of bilateral investment?
Mr. Heru: Thank you, my friend. Yes, this golf course has given us not only beautiful memories but also meaningful dialogues. Indonesia and Bangladesh enjoy excellent diplomatic ties, but when it comes to investment, I believe there is still significant untapped potential. We’ve had Indonesian companies express serious interest in sectors like energy, textiles, agriculture, and even halal food processing in Bangladesh.
Editor: True. But some foreign investors still hesitate. What are the main concerns Indonesian investors raise?
Mr. Heru: The common concerns revolve around bureaucratic delays, lack of consistent policy enforcement, and infrastructural bottlenecks—though I must add, the situation is improving. Many Indonesian firms want to see streamlined regulations and strong post-investment facilitation. These are not unique to Bangladesh, but addressing them swiftly would certainly attract more long-term FDI from Indonesia.
Editor: We’ve had productive visits recently—trade delegations, energy sector discussions. Are these bearing fruit?
Mr. Heru: Yes, indeed. Last year’s high-level delegation visit resulted in a Memorandum of Understanding in renewable energy collaboration. Also, a major Indonesian agro-processing company is currently exploring joint ventures in North Bengal. These are promising steps. And frankly, events like these—where sport and diplomacy meet—help deepen mutual trust.
Editor: Speaking of which, how important do you think platforms like Tiger Golf Club are for such soft diplomacy?
Mr. Heru: Extremely important. Golf may look like a leisure sport, but on these greens, relationships are built—businesses initiated, cultural bridges crossed. Tiger Golf Club has always had a reputation for welcoming diplomats, businessmen, and thinkers. I believe it’s one of the few spaces where conversation flows freely and friendships are forged across flags.
