Jakarta, INTI – Digital infrastructure development in Indonesia continues to show significant progress, especially in big cities like Jakarta. With the increasing need for fast and stable connectivity, the existence of an internet network is the backbone of national digital transformation.
In an exclusive interview with INTI Media, Henry, Chairman of APJII Jakarta Special Region, shared his views on the readiness of digital infrastructure and the challenges of internet equality throughout Indonesia.
Jakarta Reaches 80% Internet Infrastructure Readiness
According to Henry, currently more than 80% of internet cables are available in front of Jakarta residents' homes, signaling the capital's high readiness to welcome the digital era. “For Jakarta, we are very ready,” he said. This shows that digital infrastructure development in the metropolitan city has almost reached an optimal point.
However, this condition has not been evenly distributed nationally. Henry emphasized that Indonesia as an archipelago faces a big challenge in building digital infrastructure as a whole. There is still a significant gap between Java and outside Java, especially in terms of internet speed and stability.
Internet Inequality Outside Java and the Hope of Collaboration
In the discussion, Henry also highlighted the important role of communities such as APJII (Indonesian Internet Service Providers Association) in encouraging equitable internet quality. He mentioned initiatives such as “Pom Digi” which targets internet speeds of up to 100 Mbps. However, according to him, this speed can only be optimally realized in Java, while outside Java still needs government support.
“Hopefully, the government can subsidize businesses to build internet infrastructure evenly outside Java,” he explained. This is believed to be a strategic step to overcome the digital divide between regions.
Towards a Sovereign Digital Infrastructure
In the context of national digital sovereignty, equitable distribution of digital infrastructure is a crucial aspect. It is not only a matter of physical network development, but also includes the readiness of ecosystems such as internet exchanges, peering, and national IP.
Henry emphasized the importance of cross-sector collaboration between the government and the internet service provider community so that digital transformation can be felt inclusively throughout Indonesia.
Conclusion
While Jakarta has shown high readiness in digital infrastructure with more than 80% wired internet coverage, equitable connectivity at the national level remains a major challenge. The disparity between Java and outside Java requires synergy between the government and industry players, such as APJII, to encourage equitable infrastructure development. Support in the form of subsidies and cross-sector collaboration is needed so that digital transformation can be achieved inclusively and sustainably in all corners of Indonesia.