Indonesia-Microsoft Explore Opportunities for AI Technology and Digital Talent Development

Jakarta, INTI - President Joko Widodo welcomed a delegation from Microsoft at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, on Tuesday, April 30, 2024. The meeting focused on the collaboration between Microsoft and the Indonesian government in developing human resources and technology, particularly in the field of artificial intelligence (AI).

"Earlier, I spoke with the President about human resources development and establishing a joint research center between Microsoft and the Indonesian government, especially in shaping digital talent, particularly in the field of AI, including opening a research center in Indonesia," said Minister of Communication and Information (Menkominfo) Budi Arie Setiadi in a press statement after the meeting.

Budi explained that Microsoft has an Asia-Pacific Research and Development Center, which is expected to be established in Indonesia as well. This initiative aims to support the Indonesian government in building smart cities in the country, including the proposed capital city relocation project.

"Microsoft has the Asia Pacific Research and Development Center. The President requested that one of them be built in Indonesia, the location is flexible, including in the proposed new capital city or Bali, those are the options," Budi added.

Furthermore, Budi conveyed that the meeting also discussed the development of AI technology in the agricultural and fisheries sectors in Indonesia. He mentioned that President Jokowi continues to support cooperation between Microsoft and the Indonesian government in various sectors.

"We also discussed the development of technology for agriculture, fisheries, which require the development of technology, especially AI. We believe that with the integration of technology and Indonesia's strengths, we can become an advanced nation," he stated.

In the same vein, President Director of Microsoft Indonesia, Dharma Simorangkir, explained that the meeting also addressed Microsoft's commitment to business development and technology investment in Indonesia. Regarding research development in Indonesia, Dharma stated that they would follow up on it.

"Mr. Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft, has met with the President to convey the commitment to Microsoft's business development and technology investment in Indonesia," said Dharma.

"For the development, including the President's desire for research development, we will follow up on it," he concluded.