Harnessing Localized AI for Indonesia’s Digital Transformation: Sahabat-AI and NVIDIA in Action

Jakarta, INTI - Indonesia is embracing artificial intelligence (AI) with a bold initiative aimed at achieving digital independence. The launch of Sahabat-AI, in collaboration with NVIDIA and leading tech firms, represents a transformative effort to empower the nation’s industries and communities with localized AI solutions.

At the heart of Sahabat-AI lies a suite of open-source Indonesian large language models (LLMs), tailored to the linguistic and cultural contexts of Indonesia. These models mark a departure from generic, global AI platforms, ensuring that Indonesians have tools that resonate with their unique identity.

“AI that speaks our language and understands our culture will drive inclusivity and innovation,” said IOH CEO Vikram Sinha at the launch event in Jakarta.

Collaborative Efforts for Sovereign AI

The initiative is backed by a robust public-private partnership involving NVIDIA, IOH, and government agencies. GPU Merdeka by Lintasarta, a sovereign AI cloud powered by NVIDIA, plays a pivotal role in hosting these LLMs. The cloud infrastructure accelerates AI deployments across sectors, enabling faster adoption of advanced technologies.

Diverse Applications Across Industries

Sahabat-AI’s localized models have already demonstrated their potential in multiple sectors:

1. Healthcare: Digital agents developed by Hippocratic AI improve patient engagement while ensuring data security.
2. Finance: Pre-built enterprise solutions are transforming banking operations, increasing efficiency and profitability.
3. Public Services: AI-powered chatbots simplify citizen interactions with government agencies, answering queries on tax rates and identification cards.

Integration with Daily Life

Indonesia’s largest tech conglomerates, such as GoTo, are incorporating Sahabat-AI into their services. GoTo’s digital assistant, Dira, uses these AI models to enhance customer experiences in transport, food delivery, and financial transactions.

NVIDIA’s contributions extend beyond hardware. Platforms like NeMo Guardrails ensure that AI models deliver accurate, context-aware, and secure responses. Meanwhile, the modular architecture of the Sahabat-AI ecosystem allows for easy scalability, ensuring future growth.

Sustainability is a core element of the initiative. The AI data center hosting Sahabat-AI operates with renewable energy, aligning with global efforts to reduce carbon footprints in technology.

Indonesia’s ambitious project has implications far beyond its borders. Sahabat-AI offers a blueprint for other nations aiming to balance digital transformation with cultural preservation and sustainability. With NVIDIA’s cutting-edge platforms and a strong local commitment, the initiative highlights the possibilities of AI in fostering inclusive growth.

By focusing on local needs and empowering its citizens, Indonesia is setting a global example of how AI can be both innovative and human-centered.