Hashim Claims 'People's Internet' at Cost of Three Packs of Cigarettes Could Boost Economic Growth to 8%

Hashim Djojohadikusumo affirmed that the IRA - People’s Internet programme could drive Indonesia’s economic growth to 8%, in line with President Prabowo Subianto’s vision.

“This is one of the drivers of Indonesia’s economic growth. I am confident and optimistic that we can achieve 8% growth in the not-too-distant future, through infrastructure such as affordable internet, People’s Internet,” Hashim said during the launch of IRA - People’s Internet in Jakarta on Tuesday (26 May).

Hashim noted that a McKinsey study indicated that for every 10% of a nation’s population with access to affordable, efficient internet, economic growth could increase by 0.7-1.3% annually.

“Let’s say 1% per year. I understand Surge is prepared to install 5 million subscribers this year,” Hashim added.

Therefore, with the IRA-WiFi People’s Internet package offering unlimited data at 100 Mbps for Rp100,000 – equivalent to three packs of cigarettes – Hashim believes it will enhance Indonesian citizens’ welfare and boost economic growth.

“I am confident we can achieve nearly 7% growth with affordable internet. Especially with upcoming housing, downstreaming and other programmes,” he said.

PT Solusi Sinergi Digital Tbk (“SURGE”), through its subsidiary PT Telemedia Komunikasi Pratama (“Telemedia”), officially launched the IRA – People’s Internet programme simultaneously.