Jakarta, INTI - The Indonesian government continues to explore solutions for extending digital connectivity to regions that remain beyond the reach of conventional telecommunications infrastructure.
Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs Nezar Patria stated that Non-Geostationary Satellite Orbit (NGSO) technologies, including Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, can serve as a critical complement to existing infrastructure in areas that cannot be adequately covered by Base Transceiver Stations (BTS) or fiber-optic networks.
According to Nezar, Indonesia’s unique geography, comprising thousands of islands, mountainous terrain, and remote communities, makes it difficult for land-based telecommunications infrastructure alone to meet the country's connectivity needs.
“Non-Geostationary Orbit satellite technology, particularly Low Earth Orbit satellites, offers solutions that align with our goals across three important dimensions: fundamental, strategic, and practical,” he said while opening the Indonesia Connectivity Forum 2026 in Central Jakarta on June 3, 2026.
Bridging Connectivity Gaps Through LEO Satellites
Nezar explained that, from a fundamental perspective, LEO technology can provide internet access to regions that are either geographically difficult to reach or commercially unfeasible for telecommunications operators.
“Not every location can be served by BTS infrastructure because of challenging topography. Alternative approaches are needed, such as fiber-optic cables or LEO satellites, which I believe are among the most viable solutions,” he said.
Expanding connectivity to previously underserved areas is considered essential for improving access to education, healthcare, digital government services, and new economic opportunities.
Nezar noted that NGSO technologies could accelerate regional digital transformation while supporting more inclusive digital economic growth across the country.
“With LEO and NGSO technologies connecting many previously unreachable locations, we can drive stronger digital transformation in the regions and support the growth of digital commerce. The economic benefits will be substantial,” he added.
Supporting Communication During Emergencies
Beyond economic development, satellite technology also plays a crucial role in maintaining communication services during natural disasters.
When terrestrial telecommunications infrastructure is disrupted, satellite-based connectivity can remain operational, enabling emergency response coordination and ensuring continued public communication.
“I believe LEO satellites have a very specific and crucial role. This was evident during recent disasters when communication networks were disrupted in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra. In those situations, satellite connectivity was the only available option,” Nezar said.
Collaboration to Close the Digital Divide
The role of satellite technology was one of the key topics discussed at the Indonesia Connectivity Forum 2026.
The forum brought together government representatives, industry leaders, academics, development organizations, and civil society groups to explore strategies for expanding digital access through a combination of terrestrial and satellite-based infrastructure.
Rezha Bayu Oktavian Arief, Co-Founder and CEO of Obviously Sustainable, emphasized that expanding connectivity is fundamentally about addressing Indonesia’s persistent digital divide.
“The digital divide remains one of Indonesia’s most pressing development challenges. Thousands of villages and remote communities still lack reliable digital infrastructure. Closing this gap is not only about technology, it is about fairness and ensuring that no community is left behind,” he said.
The forum encouraged cross-sector collaboration to ensure that connectivity initiatives do more than simply provide network access. The goal is to create broader opportunities for education, healthcare, public services, and digital economic participation throughout Indonesia.
Conclusion
Indonesia is increasingly looking to LEO and NGSO satellite technologies as strategic tools for achieving nationwide digital inclusion. By complementing terrestrial networks, satellite connectivity can help bridge geographical barriers, strengthen disaster resilience, and unlock economic opportunities for underserved communities across the archipelago.
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