Apple has announced its plan to build a factory in Bandung, West Java, as part of an effort to expand its product offerings in Indonesia, particularly for the iPhone market. This initiative is part of a larger proposal valued at $100 million (approximately IDR 1.58 trillion), submitted to Indonesia's Ministry of Industry (Kemenperin). According to Kemenperin spokesperson Febri Hendri Antoni Arif, the factory will focus on producing the mesh components for the Apple AirPods Max, specifically the ear cushions.

This announcement confirms that Apple intends to begin producing the ear padding for its premium over-ear headphones in Bandung starting in July 2025. Airpods Max, which were launched in Indonesia in April 2021, are sold through several local distributors and have become a popular product in the market. These headphones are known for their high-end design, featuring a custom mesh fabric on the ear cushions that can be removed and cleaned, providing comfort and quality audio performance.

The AirPods Max is sold in Indonesia at a price of IDR 8,999,000 and comes in five colors: green, pink, silver, space grey, and sky blue. The ear cushions, which are a key component of this headset, will now be produced locally in Bandung as part of Apple's ongoing efforts to strengthen its global supply chain and better serve the growing demand for its products in Southeast Asia.

Febri Hendri Antoni Arif emphasized that this production expansion will not only support Apple's operations in Indonesia but also enhance the local manufacturing capabilities of Indonesia’s tech industry. Apple’s move to establish a production facility in Bandung reflects the company’s commitment to improving its market presence in Indonesia, which continues to be a crucial market for its products.

The establishment of this factory is a step forward in the company's strategy to localize production in Indonesia, bringing significant economic benefits, including job creation and the development of the local tech manufacturing sector. This move also aligns with Indonesia’s broader goals of fostering an innovative and competitive digital economy and further solidifies the country’s importance in the global supply chain for major tech companies like Apple.

As part of its strategy to maintain a competitive edge, Apple is expected to continue leveraging the facilities in Indonesia to meet the growing consumer demand for premium audio devices and accessories. With the establishment of this manufacturing plant, Apple will be able to streamline its production processes, reducing reliance on overseas supply chains and ensuring a more efficient and cost-effective manufacturing operation within the region.

By investing in local production, Apple is not only reinforcing its presence in the Indonesian market but also supporting the broader tech ecosystem by contributing to the development of local manufacturing talent and capabilities. This move could potentially pave the way for further investments and product expansions from Apple in Indonesia in the years to come.

KOMPAS.COM