In an effort to provide affordable internet access for all, the Indonesian government is urged by the Asosiasi Penyelenggara Telekomunikasi Indonesia (ATSI) to collaborate with private companies. This call aims to bridge digital divides in remote regions and bring quality connectivity to every community.

ATSI Vice Chairman Merza Fachys stressed that internet infrastructure must be accessible to all layers of society. He noted that stakeholders, including the government, service providers, and communities, should unite to overcome obstacles.

Merza stated, "Whatever and whoever becomes an impediment to development and a disruptor of resilience must be immediately addressed, and we must find a solution as soon as possible." His remark underscores the urgency of eliminating any barriers that hinder progress in digital connectivity.

Merza added that equal and high-quality internet access would enable communities across regions to operate at their maximum potential. He claimed that widespread internet access could boost the local economy and ultimately drive national economic growth.

The Asosiasi Penyelenggara Jasa Internet Indonesia (APJII) shares a similar view. APJII Secretary-General Zulfadly Syam believes that increasing internet accessibility will have a multiplier effect on regional economic growth.

Zulfadly warned that the government should not pursue affordable internet alone, using oligarchic mechanisms over more than 1,200 ISPs. He emphasized that solutions must be comprehensive and innovative to address all challenges.

Zulfadly suggested that the government should establish additional international internet gateways across Indonesia. He noted that currently, most international interconnections are concentrated in Batam, and expanding gateways would require significant government effort and incentives for growing ISPs.

ATSI and APJII believe that a collaborative approach between the government and over 1,200 ISPs is vital. They insist that genuine progress in affordable internet will help solve societal issues and drive the nation’s economic advancement.

This call for cooperation reflects the government’s intent to ensure that affordable and reliable internet becomes a reality for all Indonesians. The proposed strategies aim to transform the digital landscape, ensuring no region is left behind.

Both ATSI and APJII emphasize that the expansion of quality internet access is not only a technological upgrade but also a strategic economic move. By ensuring connectivity in even the most isolated areas, the government hopes to unlock new business opportunities and improve social welfare across Indonesia.

Stakeholders from various sectors agree that a unified approach is essential. They believe that integrating efforts among the government, over 1,200 ISPs, and local communities will facilitate rapid infrastructure development. This, in turn, is expected to foster a more competitive digital market in the country. These collaborative efforts signal a promising future.

PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

This article was created with AI assistance.