Jakarta, INTI – Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital, Nezar Patria, urged technology-based universities to become the driving force of Indonesia’s digital economy by emphasizing their strategic role in producing digital talent, strengthening technology research, and accelerating the adoption of Artificial Intelligence. This statement was delivered during a discussion forum held at Primakara University, Denpasar, Bali, on October 31, 2025. The event gathered academics, industry players, digital communities, and policymakers to discuss strategies for strengthening Indonesia’s digital ecosystem. Through collaboration in education, research, and technology implementation, the Deputy Minister emphasized that technology campuses play a vital role as centers of innovation and talent development to support sustainable digital economic growth.
Universities as Catalysts for Digital Innovation
Carrying the theme of strengthening national digitalization, the event became a dialogue space between government, academia, creative industry players, financial institutions, and digital innovation communities. Nezar Patria stressed that technology-based universities must act as catalysts for national digital economic growth and creative innovation.
“I urge all technology and digital campuses to become triggers for strengthening digital-based creative economy. Campuses like Primakara have proven their contribution in producing Indonesia’s digital talent. Strengthen the digital creative economy and continue to produce technology innovators,” said Nezar Patria.
Inclusive and Ethical Use of AI
He also highlighted the importance of leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) to boost national productivity and competitiveness. According to him, AI opens vast opportunities to create new solutions and improve efficiency across Indonesia’s creative and digital industries, including in Bali.
“Artificial Intelligence opens new opportunities to improve productivity, efficiency, and creativity in the creative economy sector. The challenge is ensuring this technology is adopted inclusively and ethically,” he added.
Equal Distribution of Infrastructure and Digital Talent
Nezar Patria also highlighted the strategic need to enhance digital literacy, expand technology infrastructure, and strengthen digital talent across all regions in Indonesia. The government, through the Ministry of Communications and Digital, continues to expand network infrastructure such as fiber optics, develop 5G services, and establish national data centers to ensure equal and secure digital access. In addition, various digital talent development programs continue to be encouraged to prepare generations competent in the latest technologies, including Artificial Intelligence, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. This initiative is part of the government’s strategy to build a strong, inclusive, and globally competitive digital foundation. Nezar emphasized that digital inclusion is not only about access to technology, but also the ability of society to utilize it for education, economy, and innovation. With regulatory support, infrastructure expansion, and talent development, the government aims to ensure that digital transformation continues sustainably.
The Role of Bali’s Universities in the Digital Economy
Rector of Primakara University, Dr. I Made Artana, S.Kom., M.M., emphasized the campus’ commitment to strengthening Bali’s digital economic ecosystem through technology talent development, applied research, and industry collaboration. According to him, universities must become centers for digital innovation acceleration and platforms for young generations to develop technology-based solutions.
“This forum is the initial step in formulating a plan to strengthen Bali’s sustainable digital economy ecosystem. Collaboration between government, academia, and industry players is a key foundation in preparing digital talent and encouraging the creation of impactful technological innovation,” he explained.
With support from various incubation programs, technology laboratories, and strategic partnerships, Primakara is targeting the development of startups and digital innovations that can compete at the national and international levels.
Conclusion
This activity reflects an important momentum to reaffirm the role of technology-based universities in supporting Indonesia’s digital economic transformation through strengthening innovative research, developing digital talent, and establishing strategic industry collaboration. Through technology-based education, the utilization of Artificial Intelligence, and innovation acceleration programs, universities are expected to become centers for digital solution development and producers of top-tier talent capable of leading Indonesia toward a competitive and sustainable digital economy.
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