Indonesia is prioritizing sovereign artificial intelligence (AI) as a key driver for economic growth. The Empowering Indonesia Report 2025, launched by Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison (IOH) and research firm Twimbit, highlights that sovereign AI could add USD 140 billion to Indonesia’s GDP by 2030 and increase annual economic growth to 6.8%.

The report identifies five pillars for AI sovereignty: reliable digital infrastructure, sustainable AI workforce, growing AI industry, advanced research and development, and strong regulation and ethics. These pillars aim to accelerate Indonesia’s path to high-income country status by 2038, potentially reaching this goal even earlier under optimal conditions.

AI Sovereignty Strengthens National Independence

Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs, Nezar Patria, said, “AI is not only about technology, but about national independence. AI sovereignty means building technology that reflects the values of Pancasila, ensuring ethics and security, and making sure its benefits are shared fairly across society.”

The report notes Indonesia needs USD 3.2 billion in investment by 2030 to support the national computing infrastructure. Currently, AI data centers in Indonesia account for less than 1% of the global market, indicating the need to expand renewable-powered data centers and broader 5G networks.

Developing 400,000 AI Talents by 2030

To strengthen Indonesia’s digital competitiveness, the report emphasizes developing 400,000 AI professionals by 2030, with USD 968 million allocated for education, training, and workforce reskilling.

Indonesia currently has 364 AI startups with a total funding of USD 1.08 billion. Initiatives like Sahabat-AI V2, a 70-billion-parameter Large Language Model (LLM), support Bahasa Indonesia and local languages such as Javanese, Sundanese, Balinese, and Batak. These efforts signal Indonesia’s shift from being a technology user to a contributor in global AI development.

Strategic Partnerships to Achieve Indonesia Emas 2045

Manoj Menon, Founder and CEO of Twimbit, stated, “Indonesia has a strategic position to lead in the era of sovereign AI. By building a strong digital foundation and an inclusive ecosystem, Indonesia can become a center for AI growth in Asia and accelerate the vision of Indonesia Emas 2045.”

Vikram Sinha, President Director and CEO of Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison, added, “AI sovereignty is not only about technology, but about building a future owned and controlled by Indonesia itself. Through strategic collaboration and sustainable innovation, we are committed to delivering inclusive connectivity and ethical AI solutions to empower every layer of society.”

From Technology Users to AI Architects

The Empowering Indonesia Report 2025 calls for coordinated action across sectors to strengthen infrastructure, develop talent, and uphold ethical governance. These steps aim to transform Indonesia from a technology user into a digital civilization architect, preparing the nation for Indonesia Emas 2045.

PHOTO: IOH

This article was created with AI assistance.