Jakarta, INTI - Indonesia reaffirmed its commitment to positioning Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a key driver of inclusive digital transformation across the ASEAN region during a young parliamentarians forum held in Jakarta on Tuesday, April 28, 2026.
Surya Utama, a member of the Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation Body (BKSAP) of Indonesia’s House of Representatives, stated that AI presents a strategic opportunity to accelerate digital transformation while fostering inclusive economic growth across ASEAN’s population of more than 680 million people.
“Indonesia views advancements in artificial intelligence as a strategic opportunity to accelerate digital transformation and promote inclusive economic growth throughout ASEAN,” he said.
Challenges of Misinformation and the Digital Divide
Surya noted that although ASEAN’s digital economy is projected to surpass US$1 trillion by 2030, the region continues to face serious challenges, including misinformation, cybersecurity threats, and unequal digital access.
He added that Indonesia alone now has more than 210 million internet users, but the rapid growth has also increased risks related to AI misuse, including deepfake technology.
According to him, these issues transcend national borders and therefore require coordinated regional responses.
Strengthening Digital Talent and Regulatory Frameworks
As part of concrete efforts, the Indonesian government has implemented the National Digital Literacy Program, which since 2021 has reached more than 20 million people with a focus on digital skills, ethics, cybersecurity, and digital culture.
The government has also enacted the Personal Data Protection Law to strengthen public trust within the digital ecosystem.
“This serves as an important foundation for responsible AI development,” he emphasized.
Indonesia is also targeting the development of around 9 million digital talents by 2030 to support the growing demands of the technology-based economy.
Promoting ASEAN Synergy and Regional AI Policies
Surya stressed the importance of ASEAN collaboration in digital talent development, sharing best practices, and formulating interoperable AI policies without compromising each country’s digital sovereignty.
“Through an inclusive, human-centered, and collaborative approach, AI can become a tool to empower ASEAN youth rather than widen inequality,” he concluded.
The initiative also opens broader regional discussions on ensuring inclusive digital access for rural communities and vulnerable groups amid differing levels of digital readiness among ASEAN member states.
Conclusion
Indonesia’s push for stronger ASEAN collaboration on AI reflects the region’s growing commitment to building an inclusive and responsible digital future. Through cooperation in talent development, digital governance, and AI policy frameworks, ASEAN aims to ensure that technological advancement benefits all communities while reducing digital inequality across the region.
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