Opportunities for Collaboration in Technology Following President Prabowo's Visit to China

Jakarta, INTI - President Prabowo Subianto’s recent visit to China has created significant momentum for advancing technology collaboration between Indonesia and China. The visit has been welcomed by Chinese media and businesses, which see the synergy as a boost to economic stability and knowledge transfer in both countries. Here’s an in-depth look at some strategic sectors that could benefit from this partnership:

1. Digitalization and Technological Infrastructure

China, a global leader in 5G, artificial intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT), presents substantial opportunities for Indonesia in these fields. During his visit, President Prabowo highlighted the potential for collaboration in enhancing Indonesia’s digital infrastructure and accelerating national digital transformation. China’s extensive experience in digital technology could help Indonesia modernize and connect more efficiently across both public and private sectors. This partnership aims to develop technologies that streamline government services, boost economic efficiency, and create a more connected society.

Moreover, through advanced technological infrastructure and digital integration, Indonesia could better address key socioeconomic challenges, improve its digital economy, and position itself as a competitive digital hub in Southeast Asia.

2. Green Energy and Sustainable Mineral Resources

One of the most promising areas of cooperation lies in green energy and environmentally-friendly mineral resources. Indonesia, rich in minerals essential for renewable energy technologies, such as nickel and rare earth elements, stands to benefit from China’s interest in sustainable mineral exploitation. China has committed to supporting Indonesia’s transition to cleaner energy by investing in eco-friendly mining and processing technologies. This aligns with Indonesia’s sustainability goals and could strengthen the country’s position as a leading supplier of essential minerals for the global green energy supply chain.

In addition, China’s technological capabilities in renewable energy, such as solar and wind power, could facilitate Indonesia's efforts to diversify its energy sources and reduce dependency on fossil fuels. The partnership could involve joint research and development in green technology, with a particular focus on creating more efficient, low-emission energy solutions for both urban and rural areas in Indonesia.

3. Maritime and Fisheries Technology

Given Indonesia’s vast maritime resources, collaboration in maritime and fisheries technology has great potential. The discussions included cooperation in sustainable fisheries, focusing on building port facilities and enhancing local workforce skills. China’s advanced technologies in fisheries management and marine mapping could benefit Indonesia by supporting sustainable fishing practices, helping to protect marine biodiversity, and optimizing fishery output.

Technological innovations, such as satellite tracking and advanced fish stock assessment tools, could provide Indonesia with better data for managing its fisheries responsibly. This partnership could make Indonesia’s fisheries industry more productive while ensuring the long-term sustainability of marine resources, essential to local livelihoods and national food security.

4. Investment in Technology Infrastructure

China has expressed keen interest in investing in Indonesia’s infrastructure, particularly in technology-driven sectors. This encompasses building smart cities, upgrading transportation networks, and integrating AI into logistics. Indonesia’s industrial competitiveness can be significantly boosted by these investments, helping the country establish modern, efficient infrastructure that supports long-term economic growth.

Prabowo emphasized the importance of infrastructure in Indonesia’s development, underscoring the need for “smart” infrastructure that incorporates AI-driven efficiency in areas such as public transportation and freight logistics. These improvements are expected to reduce traffic congestion, lower carbon emissions, and improve delivery systems across the archipelago, making the country more attractive to foreign investors.

5. Agricultural Technology and Food Security

Food security is another critical area where Indonesia and China can benefit from collaboration. China’s expertise in smart agriculture—such as IoT-enabled farming and AI-based crop monitoring—offers Indonesia a chance to modernize its agricultural practices. Advanced technologies in soil and climate monitoring, along with precision irrigation and fertilization systems, could help Indonesian farmers maximize yields and adapt to changing climate conditions.

By embracing digital agriculture, Indonesia could better support small-scale farmers, improve food security, and reduce dependency on food imports. This partnership can also help Indonesia enhance its domestic food production capabilities, meet the growing demand for food, and improve rural economies by empowering farmers with state-of-the-art technology.

Comprehensive Impacts and Long-Term Goals

Through these targeted partnerships, Indonesia and China have the potential to cultivate a robust, technology-based alliance that benefits both nations economically and environmentally. By focusing on digitalization, green energy, marine sustainability, smart infrastructure, and agricultural innovation, the two countries are setting the stage for a comprehensive, long-term collaboration that addresses both global and domestic needs.

The framework for this collaboration reflects Indonesia’s strategic focus on building an advanced and inclusive technological ecosystem, which aligns with national goals for economic resilience, sustainable development, and global competitiveness. With China’s technical expertise and Indonesia’s resource base, the cooperation could drive innovation and secure Indonesia’s role in the future of sustainable industry and digital economy.

This partnership stands as a promising model for cross-border collaboration in the 21st century, where technology plays a central role in addressing shared challenges and creating mutual benefits.