Since taking office in October 2014, Jokowi has worked to restore Indonesia's maritime power through the so-called global maritime fulcrum vision. In practice, border defence strategies demonstrated that Indonesia was prepared for regional power and purported to be independent of major powers. Some controversial policies such as the ‘sink the vessels’ policy, the deployment of military assets near Natuna Island close to the South China Sea, and the purchase of more military hardware have international spotlights. At least, neighbouring countries have launched protests, criticised actions and expressed their concerns over Jokowi’s policies pertaining to maritime and security issues. This article argues that Indonesia's defence strategy has been influenced by great powers since its foundation. Second, despite Jokowi's efforts to show that Indonesia is an independent and neutral country, it remains under the influence of great powers.