Government backs start-up development

Jakarta (ANTARA) — The government is building digital infrastructure, strengthening talent capacity, preparing regulations and facilitating collaboration to support the development of start-ups.

Communications and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid said Indonesia, with a population of around 287 million and diverse characteristics and needs, offers room for start-ups to grow.

“This diverse market provides opportunities to develop solutions for a range of needs, test business models among different communities and expand into new market segments,” she said at the NTT Startup Challenge 2026 Pitch Day in Jakarta on Wednesday.

She said the government was strengthening the foundations for innovation by improving access to digital infrastructure, developing talent, facilitating investment, improving regulations and building public trust to support start-up growth.

She also stressed the importance of a conducive business environment with clear regulations for the development of start-ups.

“This requires policies and regulations that provide clarity, can adapt to technological developments, promote fair competition and protect the interests of the wider public,” she said.

The government is directing the use of digital technology towards strengthening manufacturing, agriculture, fisheries and micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).

“We want to seize this momentum to integrate digital solutions into manufacturing, agriculture, fisheries and MSMEs in order to increase productivity and competitiveness across the economy,” Meutya said.

She also emphasised that efforts to grow the digital economy require cooperation between the government, businesses, investors and relevant stakeholders.