Affordable 100 Mbps Internet Innovation: Efforts to Equalize Digital Access in Indonesia

Sat, 22 Mar 2025 08:30 | Network Infrastructure | Editorial INTI

Jakarta, INTI – In an exclusive interview conducted by the INTI Media team on March 20, 2025, Muhammad Arif Angga, Chairman of the Indonesia Internet Service Provider Association (APJII) shared his insights on the current situation. He emphasized that the government's plan to auction the 1,4 GHz frequency for Broadband Wireless Access (BWA) services is a crucial step in expanding internet coverage, especially in underserved areas. He noted that overcoming infrastructure challenges and ensuring affordability are key to improving Indonesia’s digital landscape.

Industry Perspective on the 1,4 GHz Frequency Auction

According to representatives from the telecommunications industry association, this frequency auction will not interfere with existing services since it is based on wireless technology. In fact, this initiative is seen as a strategic step to complement cable infrastructure, which has faced various challenges such as permits, costs, and construction time.

Improving internet speed in a country has been proven to have a positive impact on digital economic growth. Based on global surveys, better digital connectivity can contribute to an increase in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 0.3% to 0.7%. However, Indonesia currently lags behind other ASEAN countries in terms of internet speed. Therefore, this innovation is expected to enhance Indonesia’s position in regional digital competition.

Impact on Society and the Digital Economy

One of the key benefits of this program is its affordability for the public. With prices ranging from Rp100,000 to Rp150,000 for a speed of 100 Mbps, people are expected to access high-quality internet at a lower cost. This is crucial, considering that household broadband internet penetration in Indonesia is still below 15% of the total approximately 90 million households.

If this program runs successfully, internet access will become more evenly distributed across various regions, particularly in areas that have not yet been reached by optical cable networks. Faster internet speeds are expected to boost the digital economy, education, and public services as a whole.

Collaboration and Implementation Challenges

The realization of this project requires collaboration between various stakeholders. The telecommunications industry association emphasizes the importance of their role in providing input to regulators to ensure optimal program implementation. They also highlight the necessity of cooperation with local Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to maintain fair service distribution and prevent any parties from being disadvantaged.

However, this program is likely to spark both support and opposition. Some ISPs that lack the capacity to offer low-cost internet packages may oppose the initiative. On the other hand, the public will welcome this innovation as it provides a more attractive option compared to existing services.

Conclusion

The 1,4 GHz frequency auction by KomDigi and the plan to provide affordable 100 Mbps internet for Rp100,000 represent a progressive step toward equalizing internet access in Indonesia. If executed with the right strategy and strong collaboration, this program has the potential to accelerate digitalization, enhance economic competitiveness, and bring significant benefits to the wider community.