Jakarta, INTI – The Indonesian government will launch an artificial intelligence (AI)-based application to strengthen food security and the social protection system in August 2025. This initiative is part of the government's commitment to addressing global challenges through technology utilization and enhancing digital public services.
Focus on Food Security, Education, and Public Services
Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs (Menkomdigi) Meutya Hafid revealed that food security, education, and the provision of public services are the government's three main priorities at the moment. Meutya shared this in the global technology forum Machines Can See 2025 in Dubai.
"Food security is a priority for President Prabowo, especially amidst the current geopolitical situation," Meutya said. The Digital Population Identity (IKD) application, developed by the Directorate General of Population and Civil Registration (Ditjen Dukcapil), will serve as a key digital backbone for distributing social assistance, with a target of activating 10.5 million Family Beneficiaries (KPM) under the Family Hope Program (PKH).
Building an Inclusive and Ethical AI Ecosystem
During the meeting, Meutya emphasized the importance of building an AI ecosystem that is ethical, inclusive, and reflective of global diversity. Indonesia is adopting the principle of inclusivity by establishing AI centers of excellence in Bandung, Surabaya, and Papua.
"Making the AI center of excellence in Papua is crucial for Indonesians to show that inclusivity is at the core of AI development," Meutya explained.
Digital Infrastructure: Addressing Connectivity Challenges Across 17,000 Islands
To support AI integration and the expansion of digital services, the government is preparing spectrum auctions for 2.6 and 3.5 gigahertz, expanding fiber-optic networks and undersea cables, and building data centers in various cities. Meutya reminded that building fast and equitable connectivity across Indonesia's 17,000 islands is a significant challenge, but it is essential to strengthen the foundation of national digital transformation.
Digital Diaspora: Brain Link, Not Brain Drain
Indonesia is also paying attention to the potential of its digital diaspora, including around 20,000 Indonesians working in Silicon Valley.
"We prefer to use the term 'brain link' rather than 'brain drain,'" Meutya emphasized, noting that the diaspora remains a part of the nation's strength, especially in AI innovation development.
Global Collaboration and Strengthening AI Human Resources
During the global forum, Meutya held a bilateral meeting with the UAE Minister of AI, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, Omar Sultan Al Olama. This meeting discussed collaboration to enhance human resource capacity, particularly in AI prompting skills, which are crucial to directing and optimizing AI output.
"This small initiative could have a large global impact," Meutya said, highlighting Indonesia's readiness to engage in cross-country collaboration to strengthen digital talent.
Conclusion
The launch of the AI application for food security and social protection is a strategic step for Indonesia in building an inclusive, ethical, and sustainable digital future. By strengthening digital infrastructure, optimizing the potential of the diaspora, and promoting global collaboration, Indonesia reaffirms its position as an active player in shaping a global technology ecosystem that focuses on diversity and the welfare of society.
Read More : AI Boosts Teacher Productivity, HaiGuru Impact Proves It Through "AI Learning Revolution"