Indonesia’s Strategy to Lead the Digital Era with Artificial Intelligence Technology

Jakarta, INTI - Amid the rapid development of global technology, the ability to develop artificial intelligence (AI) using its own infrastructure, data, workforce, and business networks—known as Sovereign AI—has become crucial for Indonesia. This digital sovereignty ensures that the AI being developed aligns with national interests while strengthening Indonesia's position in facing the challenges of the digital era.

Minister of Communication and Information, Budi Arie Setiadi, emphasized the importance of Sovereign AI as a strategic step in protecting and advancing national interests. During the event titled "Lintasarta Cloudeka Sovereign AI Empowering Indonesia's Future" held in Central Jakarta on Wednesday (August 21, 2024), Minister Budi Arie highlighted that Indonesia must ensure that the AI it develops is capable of safeguarding national sovereignty and interests.

"We must ensure that the AI we develop is capable of protecting our sovereignty and national interests. Sovereign AI is a strategic step to ensure that this technology functions within the corridors of our nation's regulations and laws," he stated.

Furthermore, Minister Budi Arie explained that the implementation of Sovereign AI has become a focus of the government, especially considering the projection of private sector investments reaching USD 200 billion by 2025. This figure underscores the significant potential of AI in driving the economy and bolstering Indonesia’s digital security.

In addition, total investment in integrated technology between AI and cloud computing by 2030 is expected to reach USD 397 billion. "This is a clear indication of how vital this technology is for the future of our economy and digital security," he added.

Cloud computing technology plays a central role in the development of Sovereign AI. According to the Minister, cloud computing provides the infrastructure that allows for the efficient development and deployment of AI models without the need to build and manage physical data centers.

"This is crucial to ensuring access, processing, and data storage at high speed and with adequate security," said Budi Arie.

However, behind this great potential, there are challenges that need to be addressed in the development of cloud computing in Indonesia. Differences in internet penetration levels across various regions, the limited digital talent in cloud computing, and data security issues are the main challenges.

"To overcome these challenges, we need to adopt a comprehensive cloud computing implementation strategy, encourage the development of national cloud infrastructure, and ensure data privacy and security with stringent cybersecurity standards," he explained.

The Minister also emphasized the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in accelerating innovation and investment in cloud technology. This cooperation is expected to strengthen Indonesia's digital technology ecosystem and advance Sovereign AI as part of a larger vision for a better digital future.

The event was attended by Coordinating Minister for Maritime and Investment Affairs Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, former Minister of Communication and Information for the 2014-2019 period Rudiantara, CEO of Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison Vikram Sinha, CEO of Lintasarta Bayu Hanantasena, and Head of Developer Program ASEAN and ANZ NVIDIA Deb Goswami.