Jakarta, INTI - The surge in artificial intelligence (AI) usage is increasing the need for fast, stable, and high-capacity networks. In this context, 5G is no longer seen as a complement, but rather as a key foundation for Indonesia's digital economic growth.
An Ericsson ConsumerLab survey shows that the increasing adoption of AI is driving demand for reliable and consistent networks. This places 5G in two crucial roles: accommodating the surge in data traffic and uplink needs, while also serving as crucial infrastructure for the economy. The uplink itself is the path for transmitting data from user devices to the wider network, which is crucial for AI development because it requires fast and stable large data transfers.
President Director of Ericsson Indonesia, Nora Wahby, emphasized this strategic role. "5G will be a crucial digital foundation for realizing the vision of Indonesia Emas 2045," she said at the IndoTelko Forum 2026. Economically, 5G is estimated to contribute up to US$41 billion to Indonesia's GDP between 2024 and 2030.
5G Can Accommodate Data and AI Computing Needs
To optimize this potential, accelerating the implementation of 5G Standalone (SA) is considered crucial to accommodate the surge in data and AI computing needs across various sectors. IndoTelko Group Co-founder Setia Gunawan emphasized the importance of infrastructure readiness. "The demand for AI is increasing rapidly, and without the support of robust 5G connectivity, Indonesia risks being left behind in capitalizing on this opportunity," he said.
From the government's perspective, Wayan Toni Supriyanto, Director General of Digital Infrastructure at the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs, called digital transformation a pillar towards Indonesia Emas 2045. However, he emphasized that technology alone is insufficient without adaptive regulations.
Wayan explained that government policies include accelerating technology development through spectrum optimization, sustainable governance, strengthening personal data protection, and creating a conducive investment climate to support digital infrastructure development.
Conclusion
The surge in AI adoption is fueling the need for faster, more stable, and higher-capacity networks. An Ericsson ConsumerLab survey positions 5G in two strategic roles: accommodating surging data volumes and uplink needs, and becoming an increasingly critical digital infrastructure for the national economy. The government and industry players are emphasizing the acceleration of 5G Standalone deployment and adaptive regulations to ensure digital infrastructure is ready to support AI and create a conducive investment climate.
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