BRIN Chief: National Technology Awakening Day Strengthens Self-Confidence in Tech Sector
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Head of the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) Arif Satria has stressed that the 31st National Technology Awakening Day (Hakteknas) commemoration must be interpreted as a momentum to awaken the nation’s self-confidence in the technology mastery sector.
During the Indonesia Innovator Award event in Jakarta on Monday, Arif invited all elements of the nation to recall the history of national technology awakening, which was marked by the maiden flight of the N-250 Gatotkaca aircraft designed by B.J. Habibie in 1995.
“Of course, Hakteknas does not merely commemorate the history of Indonesia’s presence in technology, but it is a symbol of the awakening of the nation’s self-confidence in the field of technology. Hakteknas serves as a reminder for the Indonesian people that technological progress must ultimately lead to national advancement and the welfare of the people,” he said.
Therefore, Arif continued, for this year’s commemoration, BRIN has adopted the theme “Impactful Technology for a Sovereign, Just and Prosperous Indonesia”. The theme was specifically chosen to emphasise the strategic role of technology in building the nation’s future, which can no longer rely solely on the availability of natural resources.
He also highlighted the importance of changing the mindset of researchers, from merely conducting research for research’s sake to research that produces tangible impact for the wider community (research for impact).
“We must encourage the downstreaming of research and innovation. Research must not stop at publications or prototypes, but must become useful products. Policies that are well-targeted, as well as real solutions to the nation’s problems,” he said.
In line with this vision, Arif recalled an important message from the President, who asserted that a country’s capacity to master technology will greatly determine its position and dignity in the eyes of the international community.
To elevate that dignity, BRIN has established three specific strategies to help accelerate national economic growth, in preparation for Indonesia Emas 2045.
The three strategies are, first, delivering innovation to increase the productivity and competitiveness of MSMEs. Second, strengthening the competitiveness of national industry and Danantara through research and innovation, and third, facilitating the co-development of advanced global technology so that Indonesia becomes part of technology development.
He said the N-250 is not just an aircraft; it is a symbol of a great dream, hard work, collaboration, and the courage to push boundaries. It was born from the conviction that this nation is capable of creating its own technology, not merely being a consumer.
“This is the spirit that we must continue to carry and keep alive at BRIN and research institutions in Indonesia, including at various universities,” concluded Arif Satria.