Telkomsel has officially launched the Internet BAIK Series 9, a yearly Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program aimed at boosting digital literacy and encouraging the responsible, safe, inspirational, and creative use of technology (BAIK). This year, the program introduces a festival concept called the Internet BAIK Festival (IBFEST) with the theme "Ignite Ideas, Unleash Creativity," focusing on Artificial Intelligence (AI) education for high school students (SMA/SMK or equivalent). The initiative aligns with the Indonesian government's Asta Cita mission to develop high-quality human resources and supports the Ministry of Communication and Digital's goal of nurturing national digital talents to achieve the Indonesia Emas 2045 vision.

Nezar Patria, Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital, emphasized the importance of digital transformation in Indonesia. He stated, "Digital transformation in Indonesia is advancing rapidly and brings numerous opportunities for national progress. Digital literacy is now a key factor in ensuring Indonesians can use technology wisely, safely, and productively. Therefore, programs like Internet BAIK Series 9 are crucial in preparing the public to navigate AI developments responsibly. With collaboration between the government, private sector, communities, and educational institutions, I believe we can create a smarter, more ethical, and responsible digital society."

A report titled "AI Opportunity Agenda for Indonesia Emas 2045" by Google highlighted that AI could boost Indonesia's economic advantage by up to IDR 2,612 trillion (USD 167 billion) by 2030—almost 13% of Indonesia's GDP in 2022. The report also noted that AI can help Indonesia achieve its 2045 vision by increasing productivity and innovation across sectors. The technology has the potential to transform business operations, accelerate scientific research, and push industries to produce innovative works.

Saki H. Bramono, Vice President of Corporate Communications & Social Responsibility at Telkomsel, explained the company's mission behind IBFEST 2025. "Through IBFEST, Telkomsel aims to equip the younger generation with practical AI skills. We believe AI is not a threat that will replace human roles but a tool to enhance human capabilities and creativity. We want participants not only to understand AI theoretically but also to apply it responsibly to create real-world solutions—whether for business development, research, or impactful creative projects."

IBFEST 2025 offers three specialization tracks designed to help participants optimize AI according to their interests:

• Biztech: Utilizing AI for business and social solutions through research and technology-based product development.
• Genius: Applying AI in research to create impactful innovations across various fields.
• Creativity: Combining AI with art to produce original and meaningful music, videos, and visual works.

In addition to student competitions, IBFEST also engages teachers and educators by providing AI training and certification in collaboration with Kuncie, Telkomsel's digital learning platform.

As part of Telkomsel Jaga Cita—an initiative focused on sustainable Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles—Internet BAIK aims to support inclusive, adaptive, and sustainable education in Indonesia. This is achieved by offering digital access and solutions that expand learning opportunities for students and educators through Telkomsel platforms such as Ilmupedia, Skul.id, Kuncie, and by.U.

IBFEST 2025 officially opened at SMAN 3 Bogor on February 19, 2025, and will continue with a roadshow across multiple cities, allowing high school students nationwide to participate online. Since its launch in 2016, the Internet BAIK program has reached over 21,331 students in 1,484 schools, involving more than 9,553 teachers, parents, and communities in 296 cities/districts, while producing 1,600 Internet BAIK Agents of Change and 1,100 Digital Creative Content creators.

Through IBFEST 2025, Telkomsel is committed to further strengthening the digital learning ecosystem and fostering inclusive and innovative AI utilization, in line with Indonesia's vision for 2045.

PHOTO: KUMPARAN

This article was created with AI assistance.