Jakarta, INTI — Around 60 million Indonesians still lack access to the internet, particularly those living in rural and underdeveloped areas. This situation has drawn serious attention from the government, which is committed to accelerating nationwide digital connectivity. To achieve this goal, the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Komdigi), in collaboration with the Ministry of Villages, Development of Disadvantaged Regions, and Transmigration (Kemendes PDT), signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Jakarta on Tuesday October, 21, 2025. This collaboration marks a concrete step toward expanding digital infrastructure to even the most remote villages, allowing rural communities to experience the benefits of Indonesia’s digital transformation equitably.
Mapping Priority Villages for Internet Access
Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs Meutya Hafid explained that this partnership will utilize data from both ministries to identify and map villages that have not yet been connected to the internet. Through this coordinated effort, the government will determine priority villages where digital infrastructure will begin development in 2026.
“With this MoU, Komdigi and Kemendes PDT will align data on unconnected villages to identify which ones will be prioritized for internet infrastructure development in 2026,” said Meutya. She emphasized that accelerating digital connectivity is part of the government’s mission to uphold citizens’ fundamental right to access information, as mandated by the 1945 Constitution of Indonesia.
Government’s Concrete Efforts in Digital Acceleration
In the first year of the Prabowo Subianto–Gibran Rakabuming Raka administration, Komdigi has launched several key initiatives to broaden digital connectivity across the nation. These include building Base Transceiver Stations (BTS) and access points in Papua, holding telecommunication frequency auctions, and collaborating with mobile network operators to ensure equitable access in all regions of Indonesia.
“Digital transformation must be felt at every level, including in villages,” Meutya asserted. She added that accelerating digital infrastructure development not only opens internet access but also serves as a gateway for rural communities to develop local digital-based economies, including promoting small businesses (MSMEs) and improving village-level public services.
Internet Connectivity as the Key to Village Development
Minister of Villages, Disadvantaged Regions, and Transmigration Yandri Susanto highlighted that internet availability is a crucial factor in determining a village’s progress. Without strong and reliable network signals, he said, it would be difficult for villages to fully unlock their potential.
“One of the key factors determining whether a village can progress is its internet and signal quality,” Yandri explained. He cited Kertasana Village in Pandeglang Regency as a successful example, where local farmers have managed to export their signature product goldfish (Ikan Mas Koki) to international markets thanks to effective use of digital connectivity.
Conclusion
The collaboration between Komdigi and Kemendes PDT marks a strategic step by the Indonesian government to accelerate equitable digital access across the country. Through priority village mapping and internet infrastructure development in remote areas, the government aims to ensure that all citizens including those in rural regions can benefit from the nation’s ongoing digital transformation. Internet access is no longer a luxury but a fundamental right and a vital foundation for Indonesia’s economic growth and social progress.
Read More: Internet Infrastructure Providers Strengthen Collaboration for Equitable Digital Access at APJII Forum 2025