Locally-rooted AI models are seen as Indonesia's technological strength

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Vice Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs, Nezar Patria, said that the innovation of artificial intelligence (AI) models developed with local values and culture will be Indonesia’s strength in the field of technology.

“The development of large language models, especially by using resources that exist in our own country, will create a strength in software technology, our strength in AI,” said Nezar when met in Central Jakarta, Wednesday.

Nezar encouraged the development of more local AI models that promote domestic culture. He also emphasized the importance of creating uniqueness for each platform.

“Of course, the more there are, the better the initiatives will be. But perhaps it can create uniqueness for each,” said Nezar.

“I think it will provide appropriate solutions for use by the wider community,” he said.

The Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs together with Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison (Indosat) introduced Sahabat-AI, an AI platform based on applications that are rooted in the richness of local language, culture, and Indonesian context. Nezar views Sahabat-AI as one of the leaps made by the telecommunications industry in Indonesia.

The platform is trained using Indonesian and regional languages so that AI can understand dialects and cultural contexts in the country.

Available in the form of Android and iOS applications, Sahabat-AI presents multi-model and multi-modal capabilities that allow users to seamlessly switch from text to image, text to video, intelligent search, coding assistance, to in-depth analysis in a single integrated interface.

“Of course, this strongly supports the adoption of AI technology, in accordance with the national roadmap for the development and utilization of AI in Indonesia,” said Nezar.