Jakarta, INTI – In today's digital era, collaboration between government, industry players, and society is essential to accelerate digital transformation and strengthen Indonesia's competitiveness globally. Joint utilization of technology and infrastructure is a solution to make digital development more efficient and equitable.
Open Access and Sharing Economy in the Digital World
According to Syarif Lumintarjo, Chief Coordinator of IDNIC (Indonesia Network Information Center) and APJII Infrastructure, in an interview session with INTI Media, the government has actually started collaborative steps through the open access program. This means that the internet network that has been built can be shared by other internet service providers (ISPs), with agreed cooperation rules.
This reflects the concept of sharing economy, which is becoming more common. Just as we share vehicles through Gojek or Grab, or share rooms through Airbnb, so too with digital infrastructure such as internet networks and cell towers.
Avoiding Duplication, Focusing on Efficiency
This collaboration is important to avoid duplication of network construction. For example, the government now regulates the construction of ducting (underground cable channels) to be done together, so that the city is neater and less chaotic. Similarly, with shared towers, one tower can be used by several operators, instead of all operators building their own towers.
"We only need to have one network, because the equipment is now more sophisticated. The same network can produce high internet speed," Syarif explained.
However, obstacles often arise from the ego of each party, especially business actors who are still oriented towards asset ownership. In fact, currently there are many systems that can run through operational costs (OPEX) without having to physically own the assets.
Learning from Missed Technology Moments
Syarif also highlighted a number of important moments in technology history that he believes Indonesia has missed. Starting from the era of computers, the internet, to smartphones all only made Indonesia a consumer, not a producer.
"When computers started coming in, we didn't have our own computer industry. When the internet developed, we didn't have our own router or software factory. Even now, we are still a market, not a maker," he added.
Now, new opportunities such as blockchain and artificial intelligence (AI) are emerging. He hopes Indonesia will not miss another opportunity to become a player, not just a user.
The Importance of Digital Literacy for Society
Apart from the industry, people also need to adapt. In the era of social media, not all information circulating can be trusted immediately. Syarif reminds us that people must think critically and not immediately believe in the standards formed by content on the internet.
"Now is not the time for ‘seeing means believing’. We must use logic and common sense to assess the information we receive," he said.
He also advised the public not to be easily shocked or immediately believe without checking the facts.
Conclusion:
Cross-sector collaboration and the sharing economy are key to building an inclusive and efficient Indonesian digital ecosystem. The government, industry players, and society must jointly open themselves to cooperation, learn from past experiences, and capitalize on future technological opportunities.
With the support of programs such as IDNIX, APJI, and IIX, it is hoped that internet access can be more equitable and can become the main foundation for Indonesia's sustainable digital economic growth.
Read More: Mr. Syarif Lumintarjo - #2 Enhancing Domestic Connectivity Through the Indonesia Internet Exchange