Indonesia aims to take control of AI development direction

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia is beginning to shift the direction of its digital policy, from simply adopting technology to efforts to control and determine the direction of artificial intelligence (AI) development so that it truly has a real impact on society.

Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs Nezar Patria emphasised that Indonesia’s current challenge is no longer low technology adoption, but rather the ability to convert public optimism into concrete results that can be felt widely.

“It’s not about its potential, but about its conversion. How do we turn enthusiasm into real impact?” said Nezar in a statement confirmed in Jakarta on Thursday.

“With the momentum we have now, Indonesia never lacks ambition. What we are experiencing now is a lack of precision, especially as we navigate the AI era where the pace of development waits for no one,” he added.

In that context, the government has reaffirmed its commitment to changing Indonesia’s position in the global ecosystem, from merely a user of technology to an actor capable of designing its own direction and interests in AI development.

To achieve that goal, the government is placing governance as the main foundation, by preparing a national AI roadmap that serves as a strategic guide so that technology development proceeds ethically, inclusively, and continues to drive innovation.

“Our national AI roadmap serves as a strategic foundation, a living vision that guides AI development in Indonesia to be ethical, inclusive, and driven by innovation,” he stated.

“First, accelerating adoption in the most important places. Implementing AI in strategic sectors such as health, education, and public services. Second, ensuring ethics and trust. And third, prioritising inclusivity,” Nezar explained.

On the other hand, the government sees that accelerating transformation cannot be done alone, so cross-sector and cross-country collaboration becomes key to turning ambition into measurable results.

Within that framework, partnerships with global technology companies are viewed as part of efforts to accelerate the development of the national AI ecosystem, from strengthening infrastructure to developing digital talent.

“The way forward to shape the future of AI in Indonesia will be determined by partnerships that can turn our ambitions into execution,” he said.