Rosan Roeslani's Golden Strategy: Attracting Global Semiconductor Investment to Indonesia
Indonesia stands on the brink of a monumental industrial transformation. With ambitions to become a key player in the global semiconductor supply chain, attention is focused on Rosan P. Roeslani, who is now leading the strategy to attract investment. The public awaits concrete steps. How can this country compete with other semiconductor manufacturing giants? Concerns arise regarding the readiness of infrastructure and local talent.
However, optimism is high. There is confidence that Indonesia possesses strong geostrategic potential and demographics. The main question is, ‘How can this potential be turned into real gold?’
Strategic analysis from Bernas indicates that the key to success lies not only in offering fiscal incentives. It is about creating a holistic ecosystem.
We challenge policymakers to focus on three main pillars. First, massive talent development through vocational education and research.
Second, simplification of regulations and unwavering guarantees of legal certainty. Third, the construction of cutting-edge supporting infrastructure, from green energy to logistics.
A senior economist from Gadjah Mada University, Dr. Arya Pratama, argues, “Semiconductor investment requires long-term courage and multi-sectoral alignment. This is not a single project, but a national movement.”
According to data from Bisnis Indonesia, the target for foreign direct investment (FDI) in the high-tech manufacturing sector is expected to increase significantly by 2026. This figure reflects market optimism towards policy reforms.
As reported by Kompas, Indonesia has recorded stable GDP growth, but the contribution from high-tech based manufacturing still needs to be boosted. This is a major homework assignment for the Indonesia Emas 2045 Roadmap.
Building a Globally Competitive Ecosystem
The Bernas Investigation Team found that workforce readiness is one of the biggest challenges. Prof. Dr. Dian Kusuma, a Semiconductor Technology Expert from Bandung Institute of Technology, emphasises the importance of international certification.
“We must ensure that our graduates are ready to work in global semiconductor factories, not just locally,” she stated. This includes technical skills and the ability to adapt to multinational work cultures.
Data from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) shows that labour force participation in Industry 4.0 sectors still requires drastic improvement.
Only about 18% of the total workforce possesses relevant skills for the digital and advanced manufacturing industries.
This situation necessitates serious intervention. Partnerships between industry and universities must be strengthened.
Reskilling and upskilling for existing workers become crucial.
Rosan Roeslani has expressed his commitment on several occasions. “Indonesia will become an attractive investment destination. We will prepare the land, the regulations, and most importantly, the human resources,” he asserted, as quoted by Antara.
However, these promises must be translated into real actions on the ground. How to ensure that incoming investments truly create local added value? Not just assembling, but also designing and researching.
Bernas analysis highlights that involving SMEs in the semiconductor supply chain is a smart step. This will distribute economic benefits more evenly and strengthen national industrial resilience.
Addressing Global and Local Challenges
Global geopolitical shifts also influence semiconductor investment dynamics. Trade conflicts and supply chain disruptions are prompting countries to seek safer and more stable production locations.
This is a golden opportunity for Indonesia. However, we must offer more than just political stability. Innovation capabilities and a strong research ecosystem will be the differentiators.
According to Tempo, the government is preparing a new, more competitive incentive package. This package is expected to rival offerings from neighbouring countries that also aspire to attract similar investments.
However, investment is not just about capital, but also about technology transfer.
Indonesia must ensure that semiconductor investments bring substantial knowledge transfer. This is important for future technological independence.
The Bernas Team believes that synergy between government, academia, and the private sector is the key. Without close collaboration, this grand vision will remain mere wishful thinking.
Indonesia has an extraordinary opportunity not only to attract investment, but also to shape its future as a global technology innovation hub.