Jakarta, INTI – As part of efforts to deepen bilateral relations and respond to the challenges of the digital era, Indonesia and Russia have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on strategic cooperation in the digital sector. The agreement was made between Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Kemenkomdigi) and the Ministry of Digital Development, Communications, and Mass Media of the Russian Federation.
This partnership is not merely symbolic; it marks a concrete step toward long-term digital collaboration focused on building an inclusive, secure, and sustainable digital transformation for both nations.
Strengthening Digital Ties Through Talent, Tech and Cybersecurity
Indonesia’s Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs, Meutya Hafid, stated that the cooperation will immediately proceed to the implementation stage through the formation of a Special Subcommittee. This body will drive key digital programs, including:
- Human resource development in the digital sector
- Technology exchange and transfer
- Joint production of digital media content
- Development of 5G networks and Internet of Things (IoT)
- Governance of radio frequency spectrum
- Strengthening cybersecurity and inclusive internet policy frameworks
This broad collaboration aims to enhance the digital capacities of both countries and establish a balanced model for global digital cooperation.
Valid for Five Years with Automatic Renewal
In terms of duration, the memorandum will remain in effect for five years and will be automatically renewed, ensuring long-term continuity and legal certainty.
Meutya emphasized that the agreement is not just administrative, it will be implemented through real, measurable programs that benefit the wider public.
Russia as a Strategic Partner: A Model for Affordable Connectivity
Indonesia views Russia as a key strategic partner, especially due to its success in providing fast and affordable internet access to 92% of its population. For instance, home broadband prices in Russia range between Rp95,000 to Rp160,000 (approximately USD 6–10) per month, serving as a valuable reference for Indonesia in expanding digital access in remote and underserved regions, commonly known as 3T (frontier, outermost, and disadvantaged areas).
Agreement Witnessed by President Prabowo and President Putin
The digital sector MoU is one of four bilateral agreements exchanged in the presence of President of the Republic of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto and President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin, during their meeting at the Konstantinovsky Palace in St. Petersburg, Russia.
Other exchanged agreements include:
- Higher education cooperation between Indonesia and Russia
- Cross-border transportation collaboration
- Investment MoU between Indonesia’s sovereign wealth fund DANANTARA and Russian partners
All agreements are reinforced by the signing of the Indonesia–Russia Strategic Partnership Declaration, which outlines a new direction for bilateral relations amid global geopolitical shifts and the evolving digital economy.
Conclusion:
The strategic digital cooperation between Indonesia and Russia marks a significant milestone in strengthening bilateral relations through real, future-oriented actions. With a shared commitment to advancing technology, cybersecurity, digital content, and inclusive connectivity, this partnership sets a solid foundation for Indonesia’s long-term digital transformation. It also reflects Indonesia’s growing role as an active global player in digital diplomacy, while learning from Russia’s experience in delivering efficient and affordable digital infrastructure.
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