Five Decades of Excellence

The Beginnings

The Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) was established in 1971 by Harry Tjan Silalahi and Jusuf Wanandi, with the support of Ali Moertopo, as an independent non-profit organization focusing on policy-oriented studies on domestic and international issues.

Founded during a pivotal time in Indonesia's development, CSIS emerged as one of Southeast Asia's first think tanks with the mission to contribute to policy making through rigorous research and analysis.

The founders envisioned CSIS as a forum for scholars, government officials, business leaders, and civil society to discuss and formulate strategic recommendations for national development and international relations.

Since its founding in 1971, CSIS has played a pivotal role in shaping Indonesia's policy landscape and contributing to the nation's development.