Indonesia and India Forge Partnership in Digital Sector
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia and India are opening a new chapter of partnership in the digital sector, spanning from research and development to artificial intelligence (AI).
Indonesia’s Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital, Nezar Patria, stated in Jakarta on Saturday (1/8) that the relationship between the two nations, which dates back centuries to the spice trade era, now holds significant opportunities for development through collaborative research, talent cultivation, digital infrastructure, and technological innovations that benefit society.
“Because India and Indonesia are not competitors chasing the same narrow path in the field of AI. We complement each other,” Neper said.
Nezar made these remarks during an event titled ‘An Overview of the AI Roadmap of Indonesia’ in South Jakarta on Friday (31/8). The Deputy Minister identified India as a natural partner with extensive experience in building public digital infrastructure. Meanwhile, Indonesia possesses a demographic bonus and strategic resources to expand the potential for AI utilisation.
Furthermore, Nezar noted that the regulations within Indonesia’s AI Roadmap serve as a foundation to bring the partnership between the two nations to a more concrete implementation stage. He emphasised that Indonesia does not wish to merely serve as a market for global AI technology.
The government is encouraging the strengthening of software, computing, data centres, and digital talent so that Indonesia can play a larger role in AI development. “For too long, global competition for AI has treated countries like Indonesia as markets—places to sell AI products, rather than places where AI is built. I wish to reject that mindset tonight, respectfully but firmly,” Nezar asserted.
He added that Indonesia possesses strong capital to build an AI ecosystem, ranging from reserves of nickel and critical minerals to a large young population and a strategic position at the crossroads of the Indo-Pacific.
The momentum for strengthening the partnership has increased following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to Indonesia, which resulted in 16 new agreements. Both nations are also committed to strengthening digital economic cooperation, including the integration of digital payment systems and the development of the Indonesia Open Network as a foundation for AI collaboration.
As a follow-up, Nezar is encouraging closer collaboration through the exchange of AI researchers, startup development, and increased R&D investment from Indian technology companies in Indonesia.
“I invite Indcham to help us identify Indian companies, ranging from IT service leaders to AI-based startups, that are ready to establish a real research and development presence in Indonesia, rather than just sales offices,” Nezar added.
The Deputy Minister reaffirmed that the Ministry of Communication and Digital is committed to ensuring that every collaboration between Indonesia and India provides tangible benefits to the people of both nations while supporting the realisation of the ‘Indonesia Emas 2045’ vision.