Satellite Technology Offers Digital Connectivity Solutions in Eastern Indonesia
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Equitable access to communication and internet remains a major challenge in various parts of Indonesia, particularly in the eastern regions dominated by complex geographical conditions such as mountains, dense forests, and scattered island areas that are difficult to reach. Limitations in terrestrial infrastructure, such as fibre optic networks and base transceiver stations, result in blank spot areas that impact the public’s limited access to information, public services, and digital economic activities.
According to the latest survey by the Indonesian Internet Service Providers Association (APJII) in 2025, the national internet penetration rate has reached 80.66%. However, disparities in access between regions persist. In eastern Indonesia, such as Maluku and Papua, it only reaches about 69.26%. This figure indicates that the digital divide remains a significant issue, especially in areas with challenging geographical characteristics.
The Indonesian government continues to promote the acceleration of digital infrastructure development as part of the national equitable development agenda, in line with the spirit of building from the periphery. Various strategic programmes have been implemented, including the construction of connectivity infrastructure in 3T regions and Papua, to ensure that communities across the farthest corners of Indonesia gain more equitable digital access.
In this context, satellite technology serves as one of the strategic solutions to reach areas that cannot be optimally served by terrestrial infrastructure. As an archipelagic nation with high geographical challenges, Indonesia requires connectivity solutions capable of reaching remote areas without relying on complex and time-consuming physical network development. This is where satellites play a crucial role as the backbone of connectivity in those regions.
The utilisation of satellite technology has provided tangible support to various strategic sectors. In education, satellite connectivity helps open up learning access in remote area schools. In healthcare, this technology supports telemedicine services to reach communities in hard-to-access areas. For local governments, reliable connectivity strengthens the implementation of digital government services. The presence of internet access also opens new economic opportunities for local communities, including accelerating the digitalisation of SMEs and expanding access to information and markets.
Looking ahead, the development of infrastructure and connectivity services in strategic Indonesian regions, particularly the eastern areas, needs to be continuously strengthened as part of accelerating the national digital transformation that is inclusive and sustainable. These efforts are essential so that the benefits of connectivity can be felt more evenly by all levels of society, while also driving economic growth and improving quality of life in various regions.