<p>In 2014, Indonesia revitalized its maritime identity through the Global Maritime Fulcrum vision, followed by the Sea Policy in 2017 and the Maritime Diplomacy White Paper in 2019. Meanwhile, Taiwan developed the National Ocean White Paper in 2001, 2006, and 2020, with the latest edition emphasizing a vision of a sustainable maritime nation. This study compares the construction of Indonesia’s and Taiwan’s maritime identities by analyzing national leaders’ narratives and national interests within their maritime policies through the lens of Wendtian theory in International Relations. The findings reveal that the leaders of both countries utilize geographic conditions, historical narratives, and social-cultural attributes to shape their respective “personal” maritime identities. While Indonesia envisions itself as a maritime power, emphasizing its leadership in the maritime domain, Taiwan has redefined its maritime identity, evolving from an island country to an ocean state. Although both countries share common interests in physical survival, autonomy, and economic well-being, their collective self-esteem in national interests diverges due to differing interpretations of external circumstances. However, similarities in maritime policies offer opportunities to improve cooperation and collaboration in maritime affairs.</p>