Building a Digital Ecosystem through Satellite Network and 5G, 6G Integration

Jakarta, INTI - The Indonesia Internet Expo and Summit (IIXS), part of the Indonesia Technology and Innovation (INTI) 2024, once again served as a vital platform for technological innovation in Indonesia. During this event, Anggoro Kurnianto Widiawan, Ph.D., Chairman of the Association of Satellite Indonesia (ASSI), provided an in-depth perspective on how integrating satellite networks with 5G/6G technology could build a resilient and inclusive digital ecosystem in Indonesia.

In his speech, Anggoro highlighted the significant challenges Indonesia faces in achieving equitable digital access. As the world's largest archipelago, Indonesia has unique geographical challenges, with over 80% of its land and 95% of its maritime areas still uncovered by cellular networks. "Indonesia is a vast and diverse country, and our telecommunications infrastructure must reach every corner of this nation, without exception," said Anggoro.

He explained that satellite technology plays an irreplaceable role in providing connectivity in areas that are difficult to reach with terrestrial networks. "Satellites are the best solution for bridging network coverage gaps, especially in remote regions, so that people there can enjoy the same digital technology benefits as those in urban areas," he continued.

Furthermore, Anggoro emphasized that the implementation of 5G and 6G technologies integrated with satellite networks will serve as a crucial foundation for ensuring equitable digital access throughout the country. These technologies will not only provide fast and reliable internet access but also support critical services such as telemedicine, distance education, and emergency services in areas that have long been inaccessible by terrestrial networks.

Anggoro also underscored the importance of Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) standards in the development of 5G/6G. According to him, these standards will play a vital role in ensuring that these technologies can be widely and efficiently deployed across Indonesia. "The adoption of NTN standards will ensure seamless integration between terrestrial and satellite networks, providing higher flexibility and reliability in communication services," he explained.

From an economic perspective, Anggoro highlighted the immense potential these technologies offer. With support from the government and private sectors, Indonesia could become a pioneer in the implementation of satellite-based 5G/6G technology, bringing significant economic benefits to the country. He also emphasized that these technologies would open up opportunities for new innovations in the Internet of Things (IoT) and other critical services that require reliable and fast connectivity.

Moreover, Anggoro added that the integration of satellite technology with 5G/6G would also support the development of more resilient and sustainable digital infrastructure. "This is a long-term investment that will bring enormous benefits to Indonesia, not only in economic terms but also in social welfare," he said.

He concluded his presentation with a call for closer collaboration between the government, private sector, and academia in building an inclusive and sustainable digital ecosystem in Indonesia. "This is a golden opportunity for all of us to work together in realizing the vision of Indonesia as a country with strong digital infrastructure that can compete on the global stage," he concluded.