Director General of Informatics Applications of Kominfo, Semuel Abrijani Pangerapan, Resigns

Jakarta, INTI - The Director General of Informatics Applications at the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology, Semuel Abrijani Pangerapan, has officially resigned from his position as Senior High Official at the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology.

This resignation was made as a form of moral responsibility due to the cyber-attack on the Temporary National Data Center (PDNS) 2 in Surabaya. "I hereby declare that as of July 1st, I have verbally submitted my resignation, and the letter has been handed over to the Minister of Communication and Information Technology yesterday," said Semuel during a press statement at the Kominfo Press Room, Central Jakarta, Thursday (04/07/2024).

Moral Responsibility for Cyber Attack

Semuel Abrijani Pangerapan emphasized that his decision to resign was a form of moral responsibility as the Director General responsible for the technical process related to the cyber-attack. The cyber-attack on PDNS 2 in Surabaya has raised concerns about the security of national data.

Appreciation and Gratitude

On this occasion, Semuel expressed his gratitude and appreciation to all parties who have cooperated in developing Indonesia's digital ecosystem. "It has been an honor for me to be given the opportunity and trust to lead the Directorate General of Informatics Applications at the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology for almost 8 years, since October 7, 2016," he said.

Apology

Semuel also apologized if there were shortcomings and mistakes during his tenure as Director General of Informatics Applications. "I realize that no human is perfect, and I am not exempt from mistakes. Therefore, I apologize if there were any shortcomings during my tenure," he said.

Hopes for National Digital Transformation

In his closing statement, Semuel Abrijani Pangerapan hoped that the national digital transformation would continue to progress well and keep evolving. He concluded his press statement with the tagline, "Indonesia Connected, More Digital, More Advanced."

The continuation of digital transformation is essential amid rapid technological advancements and the increasing need for digital services by the public. Successful digital transformation is also expected to boost the growth of the digital economy in Indonesia.

Impact of Cyber Attack

The cyber-attack on PDNS 2 in Surabaya raised several questions about Indonesia's readiness and security of digital infrastructure. This case highlights the importance of strengthening national cybersecurity systems to protect vital data and ensure the smooth operation of public digital services.

Next Steps

With Semuel Abrijani Pangerapan's resignation, the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology is expected to take strategic steps to strengthen cybersecurity and ensure that similar attacks do not occur in the future. Enhancing collaboration with various parties, including the private sector and international stakeholders, is one key to addressing cybersecurity challenges.

The Ministry of Kominfo is also expected to promptly appoint a competent successor to continue the tasks carried out by Semuel, especially in developing Indonesia's safe and reliable digital ecosystem.

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