Ibas urges acceleration of digital transformation for cyber independence

Deputy Speaker of the People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR) Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono, known as Ibas, is pushing for the acceleration of national digital transformation to strengthen Indonesia’s telecommunications infrastructure, data sovereignty, and cyber security. In a statement received in Jakarta on Friday, Ibas said Indonesia must take a strategic position in the development of future technologies, including 5G, 6G, artificial intelligence (AI), and national data management. “Indonesia must not merely be a market, but must become an important part of the global digital ecosystem. Campuses, industry, and government must collaborate in research and its application,” he said. According to him, Indonesia possesses substantial human resources to win the global digital competition. To achieve this, all stakeholders need to ensure that national talent receives adequate support. “The MPR RI feels it has a moral responsibility in the development of this nation. We do not lack talent; what we must do is ensure these talents receive support so their potential develops optimally,” he said. He emphasised that digital transformation is one of the determining factors for Indonesia to achieve its ambition of becoming the largest economic power in Southeast Asia. However, various challenges must still be faced. One of the challenges he highlighted is the gap in access and quality of digital services across different regions. Therefore, the development of telecommunications infrastructure must be viewed as a long-term strategic investment. “Telecommunications infrastructure is the backbone of digital communication. Every BTS (base transceiver station) tower we build, every kilometre of fibre optic cable we lay, is an important investment to support Indonesia’s digital transformation,” Ibas said. In addition to expanding digital access, he also reminded of the importance of strengthening cyber security and personal data protection amidst increasing global digital threats. Technological development must be balanced with appropriate regulation and governance. He stated that the threat of cyber attacks is increasingly real and serious. “Therefore, the protection of personal data and the implementation of the Personal Data Protection Law must be a shared concern,” he said. Ibas further invited all elements of the nation to view digital transformation as a national strategic agenda that requires courage, collaboration, and a long-term vision. “Digital transformation is not just about technology, but about the future of the nation. If we are able to build strong infrastructure, produce superior talent, safeguard data sovereignty, and strengthen national innovation, Indonesia will not only be a user of technology, but also a creator and leader in the global digital economy,” he said.