Indonesia Prioritises Collaboration to Develop AI Industry

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs Nezar Patria stated that Indonesia is prioritising a collaborative approach to developing the artificial intelligence (AI) industry amid escalating global geopolitical rivalries. As major countries strengthen their control over technology, Indonesia is adopting a position that promotes a balance between the role of the state and cross-sector collaboration to build an open, inclusive, and competitive AI ecosystem. “On behalf of the government, we are always open to collaboration, not solely relying on the government’s role, but also encouraging all industry sectors and stakeholders to work together in one ecosystem to develop the AI industry and provide broad access,” Nezar said in his statement confirmed in Jakarta on Thursday. Nezar emphasised that this approach is Indonesia’s strategic choice amid global trends pushing for state dominance over technology. “Looking at current global trends, including in the United States, there is a view that the state needs to take greater control over technology and technology companies. However, that is not the path Indonesia will choose because it could lead to what is called technological fascism,” he explained. Discussing the global geopolitical context, Nezar highlighted that the semiconductor industry has now become the main arena for influence struggles between countries. This shift marks a major change from the fossil energy era to the chip-based technology era. He said that major powers are currently striving to establish positions in the chip war and control over semiconductor factories. In this situation, Indonesia has not yet entered the global supply chain for the AI and semiconductor industries. However, the potential it possesses is quite large and offers promising opportunities. “Indonesia has several important minerals, such as gold, cobalt, and nickel, which are used in the semiconductor manufacturing process. The challenge is how to process these minerals to be ready to become part of the components needed by the industry,” said Nezar. Therefore, to prepare superior and competitive human resources as digital talent, the government is consistently creating strategic programmes for human resource development. “The Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs is preparing the AI Talent Factory programme involving universities, research centres, and various stakeholders to equip the younger generation with AI skills,” said Nezar. By integrating natural resource strengths and digital talent, Nezar is optimistic that Indonesia can take a strategic position in the global AI industry. Through a collaborative approach, the AI industry can still grow in Indonesia without relying on full state control, while still safeguarding national interests.