Indonesia Pursues AI Independence Through Infrastructure and Talent Development

Indonesia is preparing the foundation for artificial intelligence (AI) independence through ecosystem development encompassing local AI models, computing infrastructure, and the strengthening of digital talent. Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs Nezar Patria assessed that future AI mastery is not only related to technological innovation but is also part of the country’s strategic position in the global technology supply chain. He revealed that amidst global geopolitical dynamics, more countries are trying to build AI independence so as not to depend on major powers for technological mastery. “Middle power countries are trying to promote sovereign AI because ultimately, mastery of AI technology will become a choke point for these major countries to maintain their dominance,” he said. He stressed that the development of AI independence must be carried out comprehensively, covering basic infrastructure layers such as electricity, water, GPUs, chips, platforms, and applications. “Regarding digital talent, it is not a problem as long as our young people and talents are given the opportunity. They can access AI infrastructure, gain knowledge, and exercise creativity and innovation. I am confident we can compete in the compute cluster field,” he said. In addition to digital talent, Nezar also assessed that Indonesia has a strategic advantage in the form of critical mineral resources that are raw materials for the AI and semiconductor industries. According to him, steps are needed to utilise these minerals to strengthen the country’s bargaining power and position in the global supply chain. “We have natural resources that are currently being contested for AI infrastructure, namely critical minerals, so steps must be taken to secure them as one of our bargaining chips in the global supply chain,” he said.