Minister of Communication and Digital says AI adoption can boost GDP

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Minister of Communication and Digital Meutya Hafid stated that the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) technology has the potential to add up to 3.67 per cent to Indonesia’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). “Competitiveness today is no longer determined by resources, but by the ability to adapt to technology, especially AI,” she said at the “The Power of AI” forum in Bali on Saturday (18/4). “Values are now shifting; it’s no longer about resources, but our ability to manage data into solutions,” she added, as quoted in the ministry’s press release on Sunday. Meutya conveyed that Indonesia can maximise AI utilisation to support digital economic growth. World Bank data shows that Indonesia ranks 41st out of 198 countries and falls into category A in public digital transformation, reflecting strong capacity in developing digital services. “Indonesia continues to strengthen its position as a major digital economy force in Southeast Asia,” Meutya said. “Health, agriculture, and manufacturing must be accelerated because that is where we can create the greatest impact,” she added. Meutya also highlighted the importance of strong and adaptive AI governance amid rapidly advancing technology. “AI regulation is no longer an option; it is an urgent and unavoidable need,” she said. She noted that the government has finalised a presidential regulation on the national AI roadmap and ethics, which is currently awaiting approval. “This roadmap provides clear direction while ensuring public protection from various AI risks,” she said. The government will promote inclusive AI adoption across various sectors, including micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), so that the benefits of digital transformation can be felt evenly throughout Indonesia.