Jakarta, INTI - The Indonesian government has set a target to achieve an average internet speed of 100 megabits per second (Mbps) nationwide by 2028.
The target is part of efforts to accelerate digital transformation while expanding access to high-speed internet services, particularly in areas that have yet to receive optimal connectivity.
According to ETCIO Southeast Asia, the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Komdigi) has identified equal access to digital connectivity as one of its key priorities.
Indonesia’s Internet Performance and Infrastructure Challenges
The government also aims to make 100 Mbps internet services more affordable and accessible to the public within the next two years.Despite being the largest economy in Southeast Asia, Indonesia’s internet quality remains behind many other countries.
Based on the Ookla Speedtest Global Index for May 2026, Indonesia ranked 74th out of 101 countries for mobile internet speed, with an average speed of 62.54 Mbps.
Meanwhile, for fixed broadband services, Indonesia ranked 117th out of 149 countries, with an average download speed of 47.10 Mbps. These figures highlight the significant need for further investment and modernization of telecommunications infrastructure.
Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs Nezar Patria stated that reliable internet access has become a fundamental necessity for society. Therefore, the government is working to reduce the connectivity gap between urban areas and remote regions.
Expanding Digital Access Through Infrastructure Investment
To achieve this goal, Komdigi is encouraging telecommunications operators to accelerate network investments. The government is also promoting the expansion of fiber optic networks, strengthening fixed broadband services, and utilizing satellite technology to connect remote and underserved areas.
In addition, mobile operators and telecommunications companies are encouraged to increase capital expenditure to expand service coverage. These efforts are expected to improve network quality, especially in areas that remain connectivity black spots.
However, achieving nationwide high-speed internet access continues to face several challenges. Nezar acknowledged that connectivity gaps still exist, including in several densely populated areas on Java Island.
He also emphasized the importance of telecommunications infrastructure during disaster response efforts, where restoring communication networks becomes a critical priority alongside emergency aid distribution.
Data from the Indonesian Internet Service Providers Association (APJII) shows that the number of internet users in Indonesia reached 235.2 million people in 2026, representing around 82% of the total population. This figure increased by 1.06% compared to the previous year.
Nevertheless, internet users remain largely concentrated on Java Island, indicating that regional digital inequality remains a major challenge for the government.
APJII’s survey also revealed that communication and social media activities remain the primary reasons people access the internet, accounting for 19.9% of usage. This is followed by digital entertainment at 19.7% and information or news searches at 19.6%.
Other online activities include e-commerce and digital services at 18.7%, education and work-related activities at 10.9%, financial services at 5.8%, and public and government services at 4.5%.
On the other hand, many Indonesians remain disconnected from digital services. APJII reported that 34% of non-users do not have internet-enabled devices, while 31.5% stated that they lack sufficient digital skills.
Internet affordability is another barrier, affecting 17.2% of respondents. Meanwhile, 12.9% believe the internet does not yet provide sufficient benefits, and 1.3% cited physical limitations as the main obstacle.
The government expects improved internet speeds and wider connectivity access to strengthen Indonesia’s digital economy. Alongside increasing digital literacy and device ownership, sectors such as e-commerce, online education, digital healthcare, and financial technology are expected to continue growing.
The government’s focus on providing more affordable internet services is also expected to ensure that high-speed connectivity is not limited to urban communities but can support more inclusive economic growth nationwide.
Industry analysts believe that achieving widespread high-speed internet access could serve as a model for other developing countries facing similar connectivity challenges.
However, success will depend on consistent regulatory support, stronger collaboration between the government and private sector, and continued efforts to address both infrastructure and digital skills gaps.
The next two years will be a crucial period in determining whether Indonesia can achieve its digital connectivity targets and expand public participation in the digital economy.
Conclusion
Indonesia’s goal of achieving nationwide 100 Mbps internet connectivity by 2028 highlights the country’s commitment to building a stronger and more inclusive digital ecosystem. By accelerating infrastructure development, expanding broadband coverage, and improving digital accessibility, the government aims to ensure that high-speed internet can support economic growth, innovation, and equal opportunities across regions. Continued collaboration between the public and private sectors will be essential to overcome connectivity challenges and strengthen Indonesia’s position in the global digital landscape.
Read more: ZTE and XLSmart Expand Strategic Collaboration in AI, 5G, and FWA Solutions