Jakarta, INTI - Cyber threats targeting Indonesia are becoming increasingly complex amid rapid digital transformation, growing global geopolitical competition, and the country’s strategic importance. Experts warn that these threats are no longer limited to cybercrime but have evolved into tools for foreign espionage and information operations that could potentially disrupt national security. As a result, strengthening cybersecurity regulations has become an urgent priority.
Dr. Stanislaus Riyanta, an Intelligence and Strategic Studies observer from the University of Indonesia (UI), stated that Indonesia has become a highly attractive target for cyberattacks due to its natural resources, human capital, and strategic position. He emphasized that attention should be focused not only on the technology used in attacks but also on the actors behind them.
“Cyberattacks are merely a medium or tool. The main focus should be directed toward identifying the actors behind these attacks, including foreign intelligence activities and espionage operations,” he said in an interview with a national television station on July 21, 2026.
Strengthening Cyber Regulations and National Digital Resilience
He highlighted that Indonesia requires comprehensive regulations covering device security standards, security assessment mechanisms, institutional authority frameworks, and the establishment of a Cyber Resilience Law and Counter-Espionage Law as foundations to address increasingly strategic cyber threats.
International Security Expert and Rector of Universitas Kristen Indonesia (UKI), Prof. Angel Damayanti, Ph.D., stated that Indonesia’s position as a major producer of critical minerals and its role in international trade routes make the country a potential target for various cyber threats. Dependence on foreign cybersecurity devices and technologies also needs to be addressed, as they could potentially be exploited for espionage activities.
“Building national cyber capabilities must be carried out gradually. The most important initial step is establishing regulations because Indonesia does not yet have a fully independent cybersecurity system,” she said.
Angel added that regulations should cover prevention, incident response, supervision, and the establishment of a national command structure to ensure effective coordination among institutions. She also warned that cyber threats are no longer limited to espionage and ransomware but include information operations that could undermine public trust and trigger social polarization.
Previously, Executive Coordinator of the Indonesia Intelligence Institute and Intelligence Observer, Ridlwan Habib, stated that Indonesia’s cyber threat landscape has reached a critical stage, with attack trends continuing to increase. According to him, Indonesia requires more comprehensive regulations through the Cyber Security and Resilience Bill to strengthen national digital defense.
“The main objective of the Cyber Security and Resilience Bill is to strengthen Indonesia’s digital resilience so that the country is not easily infiltrated or attacked by foreign parties with interests in Indonesia,” Ridlwan said.
He added that strengthening cyber resilience requires collaboration between the National Cyber and Crypto Agency (BSSN), the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), the National Police (Polri), universities, digital communities, and the private sector. Ridlwan also urged the public to remain vigilant against malicious links, data theft, and digital device misuse as part of efforts to build national cybersecurity resilience.
Conclusion
Indonesia’s evolving cyber threat landscape highlights the urgent need for stronger cybersecurity regulations and national digital resilience strategies. As cyberattacks become more sophisticated and increasingly linked to geopolitical interests, Indonesia must strengthen collaboration between government institutions, technology sectors, academia, and the public. A comprehensive cybersecurity framework will be essential to protect national interests, secure digital infrastructure, and build trust in Indonesia’s growing digital ecosystem.
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