Sukarno, first President of Indonesia was the centre of the tussle between democracy (popularly known as free world to the American propaganda) and communism. Being a charismatic leader, he would be influential and a game changer in Asia.
His ideology of anti-imperialism was deep rooted because he fought against Dutch rule and went through the tribulations of gaining independence for Indonesia in 1947.
He exploited anti-imperialism as a banner to unite and move his people. To make his point poignant he liberated East Timor from Portuguese colonialism. His politics needed support in the international sphere and he leaned towards Communist China in line with his anti-imperial West. PKI (Partai Kommunis Indonesia) was the protege of China and was able to derail Sukarno more and more towards the left.
To Sukarno, formation of British-backed Malaysia was an act of imperialism to check Indonesia's influence and possible expansion. His confrontation against the Malaysia was but a mild token of anti-imperialism. Ke knew that a full scale attack against Malaysia would be a war against the Commonwealth. Plus, the Americans were getting a foothold in Indonesian affairs especially in the army. China was in no position to help Sukarno.
PKI through a small group of army generals staged a coup de tat but failed and that marked the end of PKI and hence Sukarno.
Sukarno with communist leader of North Vietnam Ho Chi Minh.
Nehru was partial towards Russia. The Belgrade Conference of Neutrals was perhaps a misnomer.
Gamel Nasser was in close cooperation with Russia. The Aswan Dam was built with Russian aid.
With King Bumiphol and Queen Sirikit of Thailand.
With Tunku, the first Prime Minister of Malaysia during good times (prior to confrontation?).
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