Jakarta, INTI - The Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Komdigi) has officially launched the auction for the 700 MHz and 2.6 GHz spectrum bands. How are mobile operators Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison, Telkomsel, and XLSmart responding?
These spectrum bands have been prepared by the government to boost the quality and speed of internet services in Indonesia, including expanding 4G coverage and accelerating 5G adoption.
Operators Respond to Spectrum Auction Plan
Despite the announcement, Indosat stated that it is still conducting internal discussions regarding its participation in the auction.
“At this stage, we are still in internal deliberations and do not yet have detailed information to share with the media. We will provide further updates as the process progresses,” the company said.
Meanwhile, Telkomsel welcomed the government’s decision to open the selection for the 700 MHz and 2.6 GHz spectrum. The operator views both bands as crucial in strengthening the national telecommunications ecosystem and expanding access to fast, stable, and sustainable broadband services.
“As a leading digital operator, Telkomsel is committed to supporting the acceleration of national digital transformation. We continue to prepare our technology and infrastructure so that these new spectrum allocations can be utilized optimally to deliver relevant and impactful services,” said Abdullah Fahmi, VP of Corporate Communications & Social Responsibility at Telkomsel.
Telkomsel also expressed hope that the selection process will run smoothly and productively, ensuring that the spectrum allocation not only adds value to the industry and enhances the competitiveness of the digital sector, but also supports the long-term health of the industry and sustainable investment.
In contrast, XLSmart has confirmed its intention to participate in the auction, viewing the additional spectrum as an opportunity to further strengthen and improve service quality.
“Yes, we are interested and will take part in the selection process for the 700 MHz and 2.6 GHz spectrum bands,” said Reza Zahid Mirza, Group Head of Corporate Communications & Sustainability at XLSmart.
Strategic Role of Spectrum and Government Requirement
For context, the government is offering two strategic spectrum bands in this selection. The first is the 700 MHz band, ranging from 703–738 MHz (uplink) paired with 758–793 MHz (downlink), with a total bandwidth of 70 MHz. The second is the 2.6 GHz band, ranging from 2500–2690 MHz, with a total bandwidth of 190 MHz.
The 700 MHz spectrum is considered effective for expanding signal coverage to remote and underserved areas. Meanwhile, the 2.6 GHz band offers higher capacity to support high-speed data needs, particularly in densely populated regions.
Beyond spectrum allocation, Komdigi has also set several obligations for the winners of the selection. Selected operators will be required to deploy 4G/LTE services in designated villages and sub-districts, as well as begin implementing 5G technology across various cities and regions as mandated by the government.
In addition, winners must fulfill financial commitments, including upfront licensing fees, annual spectrum usage fees (BHP), and payment guarantees throughout the license period.
Conclusion
The opening of the 700 MHz and 2.6 GHz spectrum auction marks a key step in advancing Indonesia’s digital infrastructure. With varying responses from operators, the process is expected to strengthen network capacity, expand coverage, and accelerate 5G adoption while ensuring long-term industry sustainability.
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