Minister of Communication and Digital Welcomes AI Investment from Yandex and Microsoft to Strengthen Indonesia's Digital Ecosystem

Jakarta, INTI - Indonesia is becoming increasingly serious about developing its artificial intelligence (AI) ecosystem as global technology companies show growing interest in investing in this field. Minister of Communication and Digital, Meutya Hafid, warmly welcomed the interest shown by Yandex Group and Microsoft to invest in AI in Indonesia, a strategic step toward strengthening the nation’s digital sector.

According to Meutya Hafid, AI technology currently plays an increasingly vital role across various fields, including health, education, and industry. With rapid global advancements in AI, the potential to integrate this technology into multiple sectors in Indonesia is substantial. “Artificial Intelligence is evolving rapidly worldwide. The role of AI for humanity continues to grow across many sectors. We appreciate Yandex Group and Microsoft’s interest in investing in Indonesia,” said Meutya after her meeting with Yandex Search CEO Alexander Popovsky and Microsoft’s Head of ASEAN Government Affairs, Maciej Surowiec, in Jakarta on Thursday (11/07/2024).

Yandex's Expansion Plans in Indonesia

During this meeting, Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital Nezar Patria also accompanied Meutya Hafid. One of the key points discussed was Yandex Group’s plan to expand its search engine platform in Indonesia, aiming to compete healthily with other established digital platforms in the country.

Meutya highlighted Indonesia’s enormous economic potential in AI. Based on projections, the development of artificial intelligence could increase Indonesia’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 12% or around USD 366 billion by 2030. “The economic potential of artificial intelligence in Indonesia by 2030 is significant; Indonesia's GDP could increase by 12% or USD 366 billion. Therefore, we support Yandex's plan to enhance its investment in Indonesia,” Meutya added.

Microsoft's Commitment to Empowering Communities Through AI

Meanwhile, the meeting with Microsoft’s Maciej Surowiec also covered Microsoft’s strategic plans to contribute to the development of AI technology in Indonesia. Microsoft has already demonstrated its commitment through CEO Satya Nadella's visit to Indonesia in April 2024. Meutya expressed her hopes that Microsoft’s investment will add substantial value to Indonesia, especially in empowering communities and ensuring information security.

“We hope Microsoft's commitment will add value, particularly by empowering communities through AI technology, supporting public organizations, empowering communities, and safeguarding information security,” Meutya explained. This commitment is expected to support public sectors and improve the quality of life for communities through more effective technology utilization.

The Importance of Healthy Competition in the Digital Sector

Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital Nezar Patria stressed the importance of fair competition in the digital sector. He emphasized that collaboration between foreign companies and domestic sectors would help create a fair and competitive ecosystem. “We hope that fair competition will be fostered in the digital platform arena,” said Nezar.

Looking ahead, support from the government and partnerships with global companies are expected to accelerate the growth of an inclusive digital ecosystem in Indonesia. This initiative will bring positive impacts not only to the business sector but also to the broader public, who will experience the direct benefits of AI in various aspects of daily life.