Jakarta, INTI - The rapid development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and exponential computing is driving a fundamental transformation of Indonesia’s digital infrastructure.
Addressing these challenges, IEE Series – Energy Week 2026, held from September 2–5, 2026, at JIExpo Kemayoran, Jakarta, highlighted the importance of an integrated national digital ecosystem that is inclusive, self-reliant, and sustainable.
The growth of AI technology is directly reshaping data center development standards, from computing power and bandwidth requirements to advanced cooling systems.
“With the emergence of AI and exponential computing, the way we build data centers is becoming very different. This will certainly require collaboration across various sectors to support it,” said Hendra Suryakusuma, Chairman of IDPRO, during the Future Outlook Indonesia as a Digital Hub forum at the Data Center Asia–Indonesia exhibition on Wednesday, September 2, 2026.
Reliable Connectivity and Infrastructure Resilience
Beyond data center readiness, reliable connectivity is essential for Indonesia to position itself as a regional digital hub. Expanding digital access can no longer rely on a single main route.
Denny Setiawan from the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Komdigi) explained that diversifying connectivity routes is crucial to building a more resilient system.
“We cannot rely on a single route. We need to build more resilient connectivity. Robust data centers are the foundation of a sovereign, inclusive, and sustainable digital economy,” Denny said.
Bridging the Digital Talent Gap Through Campus Innovation
Physical infrastructure resilience must be matched by human resource readiness.
Indonesia has a demographic advantage, with more than 72% of its population under the age of 48, providing a strong foundation for developing talent for the digital industry.
However, the country still needs to address the talent gap. BRIN Steering Board member Marsudi Wahyu Kisworo emphasized the strategic role of universities in developing skilled professionals in cybersecurity, data science, and AI by continuously adapting academic curricula.
Meanwhile, transferring technology from academia to industry requires a more professional mechanism. Chairul Hudaya, Director of Innovation and High-Impact Research (DIRBT) at Universitas Indonesia (UI) and Chairman of Stakeholder, Policy & Regulation at PJCI, highlighted the need for professional intermediaries to bridge the two sectors.
“There needs to be professional parties serving as a bridge between universities and industry, so that research outcomes can be connected and aligned with existing industry needs,” Chairul explained.
Through the integration of Electric & Power Indonesia, The Battery Show Indonesia, and Data Center Asia–Indonesia, IEE Series – Energy Week 2026 provided a cross-sector platform to formulate policy recommendations and accelerate the development of Indonesia’s digital ecosystem.
Conclusion
Indonesia’s digital transformation requires more than advanced AI and data center infrastructure. Reliable connectivity, resilient infrastructure, skilled digital talent, and stronger collaboration between academia and industry are equally essential to build an inclusive, sovereign, and sustainable digital ecosystem. By integrating these elements, Indonesia can strengthen its position as a regional digital hub while accelerating innovation and long-term economic growth.
Read more: Indonesia Poised to Become a Global AI Data Center Hub, with Renewable Energy as a Key Driver