Jakarta, INTI - The Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Komdigi) has revealed plans to release the 3.5 GHz frequency band following the ongoing spectrum selection process for the 700 MHz and 2.6 GHz bands.
Currently, the 700 MHz and 2.6 GHz spectrum auctions are still underway, involving three mobile operators: PT XLSMART Telecom Sejahtera Tbk., PT Telekomunikasi Selular, and PT Indosat Tbk.
Layered Spectrum Strategy Targets Nationwide Connectivity
Director General of Digital Infrastructure at Komdigi, Wayan Toni Supriyanto, stated that Indonesia faces unique geographical challenges, with around 17,000 islands and thousands of villages that still lack 4G network coverage.
As a result, Indonesia needs to implement a layered connectivity equalization strategy. One of the main pillars involves the layered utilization of radio frequency spectrum.
According to Wayan, low-band spectrum such as 700 MHz is allocated to expand nationwide coverage, particularly in rural areas. Meanwhile, mid-band spectrum such as 2.6 GHz is intended to increase network capacity in urban regions and major cities.
“Going forward, the 3.5 GHz spectrum band is also planned for release, although it is currently still in the planning phase as satellite services, which are the incumbent users of the band, need to be migrated first,” Wayan told Bisnis on Wednesday, May 27, 2026.
In addition, Wayan said high-band spectrum such as 26 GHz is planned to accommodate concentrated data traffic in dense hotspot areas and support enterprise needs.
Satellite and Fiber Integration to Support Inclusive Digital Infrastructure
He also highlighted the importance of strengthening upstream infrastructure. According to him, reliable 5G networks require adequate fiber optic network foundations.
However, for regions with extreme geographical conditions where fiber optic deployment is either impossible or too costly, connectivity can be combined with satellite-based networks.
With current technological developments, satellites are also expected to provide direct connectivity to user devices such as smartphones through Non-Terrestrial Network Direct-to-Device (NTN D2D) technology.
Wayan explained that NTN D2D technology functions as a complement to terrestrial networks, particularly for blank spot areas, disaster-affected regions, and maritime zones.
Furthermore, he believes that 5G development also requires regulatory incentives and network efficiency support.
According to him, 5G deployment requires substantial capital expenditure (CAPEX), making regulatory incentives essential to improve network efficiency and reduce deployment costs, especially in non-commercial areas.
Wayan added that Indonesia’s long-term digital infrastructure development targets have been comprehensively outlined in the National Long-Term Development Plan (RPJPN) 2025–2045 and the Indonesia Digital Vision (VID) 2045 blueprint.
The ultimate goal is to position digital infrastructure as the country’s main engine of growth to help Indonesia escape the middle-income trap and transform into a developed nation by 2045 under the Indonesia Emas vision.
According to Wayan, the long-term digital infrastructure strategy is built upon three core principles: inclusivity, empowerment, and sustainability.
Through this approach, digital technology is expected to improve public welfare and quality of life while ensuring future generations can continue benefiting from technological advancements.
“To achieve these digital infrastructure development targets, collaboration and orchestration among the government, industry, and related stakeholders will play a crucial role in implementing policies and strategies for strengthening and expanding telecommunications network infrastructure,” Wayan concluded.
Conclusion
Komdigi’s plan to release the 3.5 GHz spectrum reflects Indonesia’s broader strategy to strengthen digital infrastructure and accelerate nationwide 5G development. Through a combination of spectrum optimization, fiber and satellite integration, and regulatory support, the government aims to build inclusive, sustainable, and future-ready connectivity as part of Indonesia’s long-term digital transformation agenda.
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