Jakarta, INTI - Kementerian Komunikasi dan Digital Republik Indonesia (Komdigi) has announced its readiness to facilitate internet access deployment across 19 blankspot locations spread throughout 12 districts in Jember, East Java.
Deputy Minister Nezar Patria stated that the ministry had received reports from the Regent of Jember regarding several areas that still lack reliable telecommunications coverage. According to him, Komdigi has coordinated with BAKTI Komdigi to map and prioritize underserved locations requiring immediate connectivity support.
Nezar explained that the identified blankspot areas will undergo further evaluation and technical assessment to determine the most suitable telecommunications infrastructure scheme. If the areas qualify as part of Indonesia’s 3T regions (underdeveloped, frontier, and outermost areas), network deployment may be carried out directly by BAKTI. Otherwise, the government will explore alternative solutions, including encouraging mobile network operators to expand their services into those regions.
The ministry emphasized that improving internet connectivity is particularly important for the education sector. Several of the reported blankspot locations are situated near schools, where students continue to struggle with limited or nonexistent internet signals, making it difficult to access digital learning resources. Nezar stressed that the government does not want students to face barriers in education due to poor connectivity.
Komdigi stated that internet infrastructure development in the affected areas will be carried out gradually using a combination of BTS towers, fiber optic networks, and satellite technology to ensure broader coverage in hard-to-reach locations.
Geographical Challenges Continue to Hinder Connectivity Expansion
Although Indonesia’s nationwide 4G coverage has reportedly reached 97% of populated areas, geographical challenges remain a major obstacle in certain regions. Local authorities in Jember noted that mountainous terrain, hills, forests, and plantation areas continue to disrupt cellular signal distribution across several villages, including Kemuninglor, Gunungmalang, Curahnongko, and Panduman.
According to Jember’s Communication and Information Office, the number of blankspot areas in the regency has decreased from 24 locations to 19 in 2025. However, limited population density in remote mountainous areas often makes telecommunications infrastructure investment less commercially attractive for tower providers and mobile operators.
Local officials expressed hope that collaboration with Komdigi will eventually eliminate all remaining blankspot areas in Jember, ensuring more equal access to digital services, education, and communication infrastructure across the region.
Conclusion
The initiative to expand internet access in Jember highlights Indonesia’s ongoing effort to close the digital divide in underserved regions. While national connectivity coverage continues to improve, geographical barriers and infrastructure limitations still leave some communities disconnected from essential digital services. Through collaboration between Komdigi, BAKTI, local governments, and telecom operators, the expansion of internet infrastructure is expected to improve access to education, communication, and digital opportunities for residents in remote areas.
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