Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison (Indosat), Indonesia Technology Alliance (ITA), and Tsinghua University Wuxi Research Institute of Applied Technologies signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish an AI Application Cooperation Center in Indonesia.

The agreement was signed at Tsinghua University and witnessed by Parulian George Andreas Silalahi, Deputy Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to China.

The announcement was made during the China–ASEAN AI Ministerial Roundtable 2025, marking a significant step forward in Indonesia–China cooperation in artificial intelligence and setting the stage for the development of a dynamic AI ecosystem in Indonesia.

Strategic Alliance Between Indosat, ITA, and Tsinghua University

The cooperation combines the strengths of Tsinghua University in applied technology, ITA’s mission to accelerate the digital ecosystem, and Indosat’s role as a digital telecommunications leader supported by Indonesia’s first sovereign AI Factory.

According to Academician Zhang Bo, Honorary Dean of the Institute for Artificial Intelligence at Tsinghua University, “Tsinghua University began researching artificial intelligence in 1978 and became one of the pioneers of AI in China.”

He highlighted the broad applications of AI in education, healthcare, transportation, and finance, and emphasized its role in expanding access to education and distributing medical resources.

AI Implementation in Key Sectors: Education, Healthcare, and Agriculture

The cooperation center will focus on the practical application of AI in strategic sectors, including education, healthcare, and agriculture (food security).

These sectors are identified as priorities for long-term development and digital inclusion in Indonesia.

The initiative is designed to support the adoption of AI solutions that align with Indonesia’s social and economic context.

Vikram Sinha, President Director and CEO of Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison, said:

“AI can bridge the resource gap that has long limited equal opportunities for Indonesians, particularly in healthcare, education, and agriculture. By collaborating with Tsinghua University and ITA, we aim to deliver AI solutions that are practical and aligned with Indonesia’s needs, while also preparing the next generation of AI talent. This partnership aligns with our mission to empower Indonesia.”

Supporting Indonesia’s 2045 Vision Through Inclusive AI

This initiative is seen as timely as Indonesia moves toward Visi Indonesia Emas 2045, with AI playing a foundational role in boosting productivity, enhancing public services, and supporting innovation-driven economic growth.

The adaptation of AI solutions to fit Indonesia’s context is viewed as key to strengthening national competitiveness and enabling inclusive digital transformation.

Nezar Patria, Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, said:

“This step marks an important milestone in Indonesia’s transition into a new technological era. We greatly appreciate all parties that have made this collaboration possible. By combining expertise and resources, we can accelerate AI adoption in Indonesia and contribute to technological progress, not only in the region but also globally.”

The AI Application Cooperation Center is expected to begin operations early next year, serving as a hub for AI solutions tailored to Indonesia, producing globally competitive local talent, and connecting international expertise with national digital transformation priorities.

A Platform for Broader Strategic Cooperation

The collaboration is expected to lay the groundwork for potential strategic partnerships between the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) of the People’s Republic of China and Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs in developing AI capabilities.

Dr. Justisiari P. Kusumah, Chairman of the Indonesia Technology Alliance, said:

“ITA is committed to promoting collaboration that accelerates Indonesia’s digital transformation. This partnership reflects the strength of synergy between government vision, industry expertise, and academic research in delivering real-world AI applications. Through cooperation, we can ensure AI development in Indonesia is inclusive, impactful, and aligned with the nation’s long-term aspirations.”

The initiative reflects a new model of technological collaboration between Indonesia and China and highlights Indonesia’s commitment to building a resilient, inclusive, and innovation-based digital economy.

PHOTO: INDOSAT

This article was created with AI assistance.