Jakarta, INTI - Cyberattacks are becoming a growing concern for businesses as artificial intelligence (AI) advances rapidly, creating risks that can disrupt services and halt company operations.
The issue was discussed at Bali Tech Week (BTW) 2026, held in Denpasar, Bali, on Wednesday, October 21, 2026.
ITSEC Asia President Director Patrick Dannacher emphasized that AI developments and rising cyber threats are changing how companies operate and manage digital security risks.
“The decisions leaders make today will determine where their organizations stand in the years ahead. AI is changing how businesses operate, while cyber threats and emerging technologies are reshaping the risks they face,” Patrick said.
AI Advancements Increase Cybersecurity Challenges for Businesses
Patrick explained that AI adoption brings operational benefits but also introduces new challenges in risk management. Companies must understand evolving digital threats and ensure their security systems are prepared to address them.
Cyberattacks can disrupt services, interrupt operations, and threaten business continuity if not properly anticipated.
He stressed that business leaders must establish clear priorities, allocate appropriate investments, and strengthen organizational capabilities to respond to technological changes and emerging security risks.
Communications Ministry Says Cybersecurity Must Underpin AI Development
Edwin Hidayat Abdullah, Director General of the Digital Ecosystem at Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Kemkomdigi), emphasized that cybersecurity must be the foundation of AI innovation and adoption.
He noted that digital transformation requires sustained investment in human resources, infrastructure, and security technologies to prepare Indonesia's digital ecosystem for emerging threats.
“Cybersecurity must be the foundation for innovation and AI adoption, supported by sustained investment in human resources, infrastructure, and technology,” Edwin said.
He added that developing skilled digital talent is essential to managing secure systems and anticipating risks as technology becomes more widely adopted.
Government Encourages Cross-Sector Collaboration
Edwin highlighted the importance of collaboration among government institutions, industry, academia, and civil society in building a secure digital ecosystem.
The government supports ecosystem development, businesses strengthen security through technology adoption, and academic institutions contribute research and talent development. Public awareness also plays an important role in helping digital users recognize security risks.
Cooperation across these sectors is essential to ensure AI adoption progresses alongside stronger digital protection.
BSSN Warns Digital Transformation Cannot Progress Without Cybersecurity
Slamet Aji Pamungkas, Deputy Head of Indonesia's National Cyber and Crypto Agency (BSSN), stressed that cybersecurity is fundamental to sustainable digital transformation.
“We can talk about AI, digital transformation, innovation, and the future of technology. However, none of these ambitions can be sustained without cybersecurity,” Slamet said.
He emphasized that security must be integrated from the initial design stage rather than introduced only after a system has been developed or deployed.
This security-by-design approach helps organizations identify and address potential risks throughout technology development and implementation.
Cyber Resilience Is a Shared Responsibility
Slamet stated that cyber resilience cannot depend on a single institution. Governments, businesses, academia, and society must work together to protect digital systems as technology becomes increasingly integrated into daily life and economic activities.
For businesses, cyber incidents can disrupt services and threaten operational continuity. Organizations must therefore consider evolving security risks when developing strategies and planning long-term investments.
Bali Tech Week 2026 Highlights Business Readiness for Digital Threats
Discussions at Bali Tech Week 2026 highlighted three key priorities: strategic investment and organizational readiness, stronger digital talent and infrastructure, and security-by-design practices.
Patrick Dannacher emphasized business leadership and risk management, Edwin Hidayat Abdullah highlighted sustained investment, and Slamet Aji Pamungkas stressed integrating security throughout the technology lifecycle.
Together, these perspectives underscore the importance of cybersecurity and cross-sector collaboration in supporting innovation while protecting businesses from growing digital threats.
Conclusion
Cybersecurity is becoming increasingly critical as AI reshapes business operations and introduces new digital risks. Experts and government officials at Bali Tech Week 2026 emphasized the importance of sustained investment, security-by-design practices, and cross-sector collaboration to strengthen cyber resilience. These efforts are essential to protecting business continuity and ensuring secure, sustainable digital transformation.
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