Since the beginning of 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic has shattered many aspects of human life worldwide. Many believed China was the origin of the coronavirus that sparked the pandemic. While dealing with the virus domestically, China has also pleaded to help many countries overcome the impact of the pandemic. Within this context, China runs the so-called vaccine diplomacy: providing Chinese-made vaccines to countries in need, including Indonesia. This article argues that although vaccine diplomacy can be seen as evidence of China’s soft power, it is also carried out to serve China’s national interests. Vaccine diplomacy to Indonesia is to demonstrate China’s goodwill and friendship. It is also to help Indonesia recover its economy with the support of Chinese investment and to promote its influence in the region within the context of great power rivalry with the United States.
