Jakarta, INTI - The Indonesian government has outlined a series of strategies to advance an inclusive, secure, and sustainable national digital transformation at the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Plenipotentiary Conference 2026 in Doha, Qatar. The initiatives focus on expanding internet access, developing 5G networks, advancing Artificial Intelligence (AI), and strengthening digital user protection.

These strategies aim to broaden public access to technology, improve telecommunications services, enhance digital ecosystem security, and support better living standards across the country.

Secretary General of the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Komdigi), Ismail, presented these initiatives during the ITU Plenipotentiary Conference High-Level Policy Statement in Doha, Qatar, on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, local time.

According to Ismail, Indonesia's digital transformation extends beyond infrastructure development to include stronger technology governance and international cooperation.

Government Leverages SATRIA-1 to Expand Internet Access in Remote Areas

Ismail explained that expanding connectivity infrastructure remains one of the government's key priorities in accelerating national digital transformation.

The government is working to ensure broader internet coverage, particularly in remote areas and regions that have previously lacked adequate connectivity.

One of the initiatives involves utilizing the Republic of Indonesia Satellite, known as SATRIA-1, to extend internet services to underserved communities across the country.

According to Ismail, the satellite not only improves internet availability but also delivers significant social and economic benefits to communities that have long faced connectivity challenges.

"The launch of the SATRIA-1 satellite has social and economic impacts, while expanding internet access across remote and underserved areas," Ismail stated.

Satellite technology is an integral part of the government's strategy to reduce the digital divide between urban centers and regions with limited telecommunications infrastructure.

700 MHz and 2.6 GHz Spectrum Auctions Support 5G Network Expansion

In addition to expanding connectivity through satellite technology, the Indonesian government is accelerating the development of fifth-generation mobile networks, or 5G.

One of the measures taken was the auction of the 700 MHz and 2.6 GHz radio frequency bands in August 2026.

The utilization of these frequency bands is intended to increase network capacity, broaden access to digital services, and strengthen the country's telecommunications infrastructure.

The expansion of 5G networks is also expected to improve internet service quality and accommodate the growing connectivity needs of the population.

The government expects the combination of satellite technology and next-generation mobile networks to enhance the resilience of Indonesia's digital infrastructure.

"This initiative aims to improve access to digital services while strengthening the resilience and reliability of our connectivity infrastructure," he explained.

Indonesia Develops National AI Roadmap and Strengthens Child Protection

In the area of technology governance, Ismail stated that the government is preparing a cross-sectoral national Artificial Intelligence (AI) roadmap.

The roadmap is intended to establish clear directions for AI development and adoption across various sectors while ensuring alignment with Indonesia's broader digital transformation objectives.

Through a cross-sectoral approach, the government aims to establish a governance framework that encourages responsible technology adoption.

Alongside AI development, the government is strengthening child protection in digital environments through Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025 on the Governance of Electronic System Implementation for Child Protection, commonly known as PP TUNAS.

The regulation serves as a government instrument to improve child safety, particularly for users under the age of 16, when accessing digital platforms and electronic services.

The implementation of PP TUNAS reflects the government's efforts to ensure that technological advancements are accompanied by appropriate safeguards for vulnerable users.

Through this policy, user protection has become an essential component of Indonesia's national digital ecosystem development.

SIM Card Registration Requires Facial Recognition Biometric Verification

The Indonesian government is also strengthening customer identity security in telecommunications services through Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs Regulation No. 7 of 2026 concerning Telecommunications Service Customer Registration.

Through this regulation, Komdigi has identified mobile subscriber identity security as a key priority in telecommunications service management.

One of its main provisions requires biometric verification as part of the telecommunications customer registration process.

The system uses facial recognition technology to verify the identity of customers when registering SIM cards.

This biometric verification requirement is intended to strengthen user identification procedures and reduce the risk of mobile number misuse.

"Biometric-based SIM card registration using facial recognition is intended to strengthen customer identity verification and help prevent mobile number misuse," Ismail said.

The enhanced registration system is part of the government's broader efforts to establish safer telecommunications services for the public.

Indonesia Highlights the Importance of International Cooperation in Digital Transformation

Beyond outlining domestic policies, Ismail emphasized that digital transformation challenges cannot be addressed by individual countries acting independently.

According to him, technological developments that transcend national borders require international cooperation to address various challenges in building and governing digital ecosystems.

In this regard, the ITU plays an important role as a platform for international cooperation in telecommunications and digital technology.

The organization provides a strategic forum for member states to exchange knowledge, experiences, and expertise in responding to developments in communication technologies.

The ITU also helps member countries establish common ground on telecommunications and digital transformation issues that require international consensus.

Ismail highlighted the importance of strengthening technical capacity through ITU cooperation, particularly for developing countries that continue to face challenges in building digital infrastructure.

The Indonesian government views international collaboration as an important factor in accelerating a more equitable and sustainable digital transformation.

Indonesia Seeks ITU Council Membership for the 2027–2030 Term

As part of its commitment to advancing telecommunications and global digital governance, Indonesia has nominated itself for membership in the ITU Council for the 2027–2030 term.

The nomination reflects Indonesia's efforts to strengthen its participation in international cooperation on telecommunications and digital transformation.

During the ITU Plenipotentiary Conference 2026, Indonesia also sought support from fellow member states for its ITU Council candidacy.

Such support is expected to strengthen Indonesia's opportunity to participate in strategic discussions and decision-making processes concerning the future of international telecommunications.

Indonesia's participation in the ITU Council is also expected to contribute to stronger technical cooperation and knowledge exchange in addressing digital transformation challenges.

Ismail concluded his statement by encouraging all ITU member states to strengthen collaboration in building a digital ecosystem that delivers widespread benefits to communities worldwide.

"Let us build a more inclusive, secure, and resilient digital future," Ismail said in closing.

Overall, Indonesia's digital transformation strategy encompasses expanding connectivity through SATRIA-1, accelerating 5G network development, establishing a national AI roadmap, strengthening child protection, and improving the security of telecommunications customer registration.

Through these initiatives, the government aims to establish a digital ecosystem supported by reliable infrastructure, strong governance, user protection, and international cooperation to improve public welfare.

Conclusion

Indonesia is accelerating its digital transformation through expanded internet connectivity, 5G network development, AI adoption, and stronger digital security regulations. By strengthening infrastructure, protecting digital users, and expanding international cooperation through the ITU, the government aims to build a more inclusive, secure, and resilient digital ecosystem that supports national development.

Read more: PERURI Warns of Data Security Risks Amid Rapid AI Adoption, Calls for Stronger Digital Governance