Indonesia is gearing up to launch a state-of-the-art Artificial Intelligence (AI) center in Jayapura, Papua, with plans to open in early 2025. The announcement was made by Meutya Hafid, the Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs, during the Indonesia AI Day event in Jakarta on November 14, 2024. This center, a significant step for the country’s digital transformation, is part of a broader effort to establish a national AI ecosystem that can support both innovation and sovereignty in the digital age.

Minister Meutya highlighted the government’s commitment to this initiative, which will complement the already ongoing development of another AI center in Solo, Central Java. The two centers are expected to play a crucial role in advancing Indonesia’s AI capabilities, enabling the country to keep pace with global technological advancements. While the exact investment figures were not disclosed, the government has expressed its intent to work with international and local partners to ensure the AI centers are equipped with cutting-edge technologies.

The Jayapura AI Center is expected to serve as a hub for AI research, development, and application, with the goal of not only accelerating technological innovation but also boosting Indonesia’s competitiveness in the global digital economy. The location of the center in Papua is particularly significant as it represents an effort to bring advanced technological capabilities to regions outside of Java, thereby promoting more balanced development across the archipelago.

A major focus for the government is maintaining digital sovereignty while fostering innovation. This involves creating regulations that protect Indonesia’s interests in the AI space while still encouraging collaboration with global tech giants. Minister Meutya emphasized the importance of striking a balance between national security and openness to foreign investment and innovation. This approach aligns with the country’s broader strategy of harnessing the power of AI to benefit the entire population, ensuring that technology serves as an accelerator for Indonesia's economic and social development.

Vikram Sinha, the President, Director, and CEO of Indosat, also spoke at the event, stressing the need for a strong foundation in AI sovereignty. He pointed out the significance of data as a valuable resource that should be protected and managed effectively. Vikram urged the government to create policies that not only safeguard data but also promote productivity, innovation, and incentives for businesses and entrepreneurs in the AI sector. He also underscored the importance of AI in enabling Indonesians to compete on a global scale, calling for a policy framework that empowers individuals and businesses to realize their full potential.

The collaboration between the government, private sector, and global companies like NVIDIA is expected to help shape the future of Indonesia’s AI landscape. As the country moves forward with its plans, the Jayapura AI center is poised to become a cornerstone of Indonesia’s digital strategy, offering new opportunities for research, education, and business growth. The project marks a key milestone in the nation’s journey toward becoming a regional leader in technology and innovation.

CNNINDONESIA