Addressing the Digital Divide in Asia-Pacific: APT Promotes Inclusive Digital Transformation

Jakarta, INTI - Currently, countries in the Asia-Pacific region are facing significant challenges in addressing the digital divide. The Asia-Pacific Telecommunity (APT) is striving to develop initiatives and concrete solutions to enhance connectivity and drive digital transformation in the region.

Indonesia’s Minister of Communication and Informatics, Budi Arie Setiadi, is urging APT to continue working toward a more inclusive digital transformation future. “APT has reached important milestones in enhancing regional cooperation in the telecommunications and information and communication technology sectors. Let us move together toward a more inclusive and sustainable digital future,” he stated at the opening of The 21st APT Telecommunication/ICT Development Forum (ADF-21) in Central Jakarta, Tuesday (August 6, 2024).

Minister Budi Arie stated that APT has successfully encouraged each country to harness the potential of information and communication technology (ICT) to reduce the digital divide and support sustainable growth. According to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDO), digital technology contributes up to 70 percent in achieving the 2030 Agenda and the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Indonesia Digital Vision 2045: A Comprehensive Plan

The Indonesian government is developing a comprehensive plan for Indonesia Digital Vision 2045 based on ecosystem, sectoral, and territorial approaches to address the existing digital divide. “In 2023, only 52 percent of the rural population was using the internet, compared to 80 percent of the urban population. ICT pilot projects for rural areas are crucial to bridging this gap and ensuring digital benefits for all Indonesians,” the Minister of Communication and Informatics explained.

Minister Budi Arie also highlighted Indonesia’s efforts to enhance connectivity through equitable development of digital infrastructure. These efforts include the development of 5G telecommunications networks, fiber optic cable installations, the construction of Base Transceiver Stations (BTS), and the launch of the SATRIA-1 multifunction satellite.

“This infrastructure is vital for Indonesia’s digital economy and inclusive growth. These initiatives aim to bridge the digital divide, providing reliable and fast internet for all Indonesians,” the Minister remarked.

ADF-21 Forum: Discussing Digital Connectivity in Asia-Pacific

The Minister hopes the ADF-21 meeting will serve as a productive discussion forum and enhance regional cooperation in the telecommunications sector. The meeting, taking place from August 6 to 8, 2024, will discuss the three main pillars of the APT Strategic Plan 2024–2026: digital connectivity, digital transformation, and trust and security.

“I am honored to welcome delegates to this three-day forum. I hope the discussions will maximize the potential of ICT in the Asia-Pacific region,” he expressed.

At the event, Minister of Communication and Informatics Budi Arie Setiadi was accompanied by the Secretary General of the Ministry of Communication and Informatics Mira Tayyiba, Director General of Resources and Post and Informatics Devices Ismail, and Special Staff to the Minister Sugiharto.

The digital divide is a challenge that requires serious attention, especially in the highly dynamic Asia-Pacific region. Through the right initiatives and collaboration between countries, it is hoped that this gap can be addressed, and the benefits of digital transformation can be felt by all layers of society.

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