Satellite Technology and 5G/6G Implementation: The Key to Indonesia's Future Connectivity

Jakarta, INTI - At the prestigious Indonesia Internet Expo and Summit (IIXS), held as part of the Indonesia Technology and Innovation (INTI) 2024 event, Anggoro Kurnianto Widiawan, Ph.D., Chairman of the Association of Satellite Indonesia (ASSI), delivered a visionary perspective on the future of communication technology in Indonesia. He emphasized the crucial role of satellite technology in supporting the implementation of the next-generation 5G and 6G networks to enhance connectivity across the archipelago.

Anggoro began his presentation by highlighting the significant challenges Indonesia faces in achieving equitable network access. With over 17,000 islands and a complex geographical landscape, many regions in Indonesia remain beyond the reach of cellular broadband networks. "Around 7% of the world's population still lacks access to cellular broadband networks, and in Indonesia, this challenge is even greater," he stated. In Indonesia, a significant portion of both land and sea areas remains uncovered by cellular networks, severely limiting internet access in those regions.

According to Anggoro, satellite technology is the most viable solution to bridging this coverage gap. Globally, GSMA Intelligence estimates that the satellite economy will generate $20–25 billion annually by 2035, with most of the revenue coming from satellite connectivity services directly linked to consumer devices. In Indonesia, this potential is immense, given the vast areas requiring enhanced telecommunications infrastructure.

Furthermore, Anggoro stressed that 5G and 6G technologies are not just about high-speed and low-latency networks but also about how these technologies can provide equitable network access across the country, including in remote areas that have been difficult to reach with terrestrial networks. "With satellite technology integrated into the 5G/6G architecture, we can achieve truly universal and inclusive network access," he emphasized.

In his presentation, Anggoro also discussed the importance of Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) standards within the 5G/6G architecture. These NTNs will become a native component of future 6G networks, designed to seamlessly integrate terrestrial and satellite networks. "These standards will ensure that 5G/6G technologies can be widely and efficiently deployed, providing greater flexibility and reliability in communication services," he explained.

Anggoro did not only focus on technology but also on the economic impact that these technologies could generate. He highlighted that Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) services supported by satellite technology are projected to generate $10 billion annually by 2035, nearly one-third of the total satellite-supported connectivity revenue. "This is a significant opportunity for Indonesia to strengthen its digital economy and become a leader in Southeast Asia in terms of technology and innovation," he said.

With the adoption of these technologies, Anggoro is confident that Indonesia will be able to improve connectivity in remote areas, open up new opportunities for digital economic development, and reduce the digital divide that has long hindered the progress of many regions in Indonesia. "This is a crucial step towards a more connected and inclusive Indonesia, where every citizen, without exception, can benefit from the digital era," he concluded.