Nezar affirms protection of public data amid AI development
Jakarta – Deputy Communications and Digital Minister Nezar Patria has emphasised that the data and digital content of Indonesian citizens have become an important foundation for the development of global artificial intelligence, and the nation must ensure its economic value and rights are not compromised.
He argued that data is no longer merely personal information but a primary raw material for artificial intelligence. Every digital activity, from location tracking and conversations to social media posts, creates traces that are processed into high-value business models and AI systems.
“Global platforms such as Google, Meta, and TikTok collect and process data on a massive scale. This data is then utilised for developing big data-based and artificial intelligence technologies,” Nezar stated in Jakarta on Tuesday.
Nezar warned that the issue extends beyond personal data protection. Public content, including journalistic work and academic writings, could potentially be used to train AI systems without fair mechanisms.
“If not regulated, the works of Indonesian journalists, academics, and creators could become training material for global AI without clear agreement. The added value would be enjoyed by others,” he said.
Consequently, the Communications and Digital Ministry is reviewing the national regulatory framework to address challenges posed by emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence.
The government is also studying data governance practices from the European Union, which prioritises the protection of citizens’ rights in digital regulation.
Beyond data sovereignty concerns, Nezar stressed the importance of cyber resilience. The government is preparing specific regulations as a legal framework to protect national digital architecture from evolving cyber threats.
“Countries that can manage and control data will have stronger bargaining power in the global digital economy. We cannot be merely a market. We must ensure that citizens’ data provides real benefits for the nation,” he emphasised.