Jakarta, INTI - Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison (IOH) is strengthening the development of its 5G network in Balikpapan by partnering with universities, schools, community organizations, and micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). The initiative aims to ensure that digital technology delivers more than high-speed connectivity by enhancing productivity, creativity, and economic opportunities for local communities.
Eric Wilyanto, Executive Vice President and Head of Circle Kalisumapa at IOH, said building a sustainable digital ecosystem requires collaboration among multiple stakeholders to maximize the benefits of technology.
“Through collaboration with educational institutions, communities, and other stakeholders, we can expand the reach and impact of digital technology,” Eric said.
He emphasized that Indosat's mission goes beyond providing internet access, focusing instead on enabling people to leverage technology for learning, innovation, entrepreneurship, and greater productivity.
According to Eric, Indosat's 5G network now covers several high-activity areas across Balikpapan, allowing users to access digital services more efficiently. The network supports mobile working, high-quality streaming, large file uploads, and AI-powered applications.
He added that the success of 5G should not be measured solely by network speed, but by its ability to improve productivity, creativity, and digital literacy.
“For us, the success of 5G is defined not only by faster connectivity but by how effectively it empowers people to become more productive, creative, and digitally literate,” he explained.
Balikpapan continues to experience growing demand for digital connectivity as its industrial, commercial, education, service, and creative sectors expand. The city's large population of tech-savvy, working-age residents has further accelerated the adoption of digital services across daily activities.
Eric noted that Indosat views 5G as an enabler of everyday life, helping communities stay connected while supporting work, education, business, and creative activities.
5G Experiences and Community Engagement
Through its "Mau Ini Itu, Ya Indosat 5G" campaign, the company has introduced a range of activities targeting younger audiences, including Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) tournaments, K-Pop dance performances, and cosplay events. Visitors can also experience the capabilities of the 5G network firsthand by streaming content, uploading large files, working remotely, and exploring AI-powered tools for learning and creativity.
Indosat said its Balikpapan 5G network is designed to support customers across various aspects of daily life, including work, business operations, entertainment, community engagement, and digital content creation.
Empowering Education and MSMEs Through AI
Alongside expanding network coverage, Indosat is strengthening community empowerment initiatives. Through its Masjid Berdaya program, the company provides Indosat HiFi internet services to support communication, education, and community activities within mosques.
The company is also extending support to schools through its Digital School initiative, helping improve digital learning environments and preparing students for future technological developments.
In addition, Indosat signed a memorandum of understanding with the Institut Teknologi Kalimantan (ITK) to provide artificial intelligence (AI) training for students and MSMEs. Through the MSME Go Digital program, participants are encouraged to use AI to generate business ideas, develop marketing materials, grow their businesses, and enhance competitiveness in the digital economy.
Eric said these collaborations with ITK, the Masjid Berdaya program, and the Digital School initiative are all part of Indosat's broader strategy to maximize the social impact of its 5G network in Balikpapan.
“We want connectivity to do more than provide faster internet access. It should also promote learning, creativity, productivity, and create new economic opportunities through digital technology and AI,” he concluded.
Conclusion
By combining 5G expansion with digital literacy, AI education, and community empowerment initiatives, Indosat is building a more inclusive digital ecosystem in Balikpapan. The company's collaborative approach aims to ensure that next-generation connectivity translates into tangible economic, educational, and social benefits for local communities.
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