Indonesia and India have taken a significant step toward enhancing their digital collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during a state visit led by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Minister of Communication and Digital Meutya Hafid. The MoU, signed with India’s Minister of Electronics and Information Technology, Jitin Prasada, highlights a strategic partnership to accelerate digital transformation in both countries.

The MoU encompasses various areas of collaboration, including the development of artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, public digital infrastructure, and digital identity systems. These initiatives aim to foster innovation, improve technological ecosystems, and strengthen digital capabilities in Indonesia and India.

“This partnership marks a crucial milestone in building a robust digital ecosystem that benefits both countries, not just through technology but also by developing human resources,” said Minister Meutya Hafid during the press release on Saturday, January 25, 2025.

Key Areas of Cooperation

The agreement emphasizes AI and IoT development, areas vital for driving innovation in digital public infrastructure. Both countries also plan to collaborate on enhancing business-to-business (B2B) digital ecosystems and upskilling human resources in information technology (IT).

In a bid to ensure the effective implementation of these initiatives, Indonesia and India will establish a Joint Working Group (JWG). The group will convene regularly to monitor progress, address challenges, and propose solutions to streamline the partnership's goals.

Minister Hafid underscored the importance of cross-border collaboration to advance technological innovation. "This partnership must benefit governments, private sectors, and the broader community, ensuring an inclusive and sustainable digital transformation," she stated.

Digital Sovereignty and Data Protection

In addition to the digital partnership, Indonesia is making strides in data protection policies. The Ministry of Communication and Digital is finalizing a Presidential Regulation (Perpres) as part of implementing Law No. 27/2022 on Personal Data Protection (UU PDP). According to Deputy Minister Nezar Patria, this regulation aims to address challenges in cybersecurity and emerging technologies.

The regulation, consisting of approximately 216 articles, will serve as a cornerstone for strengthening data protection in Indonesia. It particularly focuses on rapidly evolving sectors like financial technology (fintech). "We expect to complete the harmonization process by the fourth week of February 2025," said Deputy Minister Patria.

To promote awareness and compliance, the ministry is conducting public education campaigns and collaborating with private companies, startups, academia, and other stakeholders. These initiatives include technical training, workshops, and practical sessions tailored for both public and private sectors.

Enhancing Digital Competence

As part of its comprehensive digital strategy, the Indonesian government is also prioritizing human resource development. Programs include technical guidance for implementing data protection regulations and practical training to ensure readiness across public and private organizations.

“Data protection is the foundation of Indonesia’s digital future. We must ensure everyone, from businesses to individuals, understands its importance and implementation,” added Deputy Minister Patria.

A Milestone in Digital Cooperation

The Indonesia-India digital partnership sets the stage for significant advancements in AI, IoT, and cybersecurity, reinforcing both nations’ positions as key players in the global digital economy. Through knowledge-sharing and innovation, the collaboration is expected to foster inclusive and sustainable digital growth, benefiting not only the two countries but also the broader Indo-Pacific region.