Jakarta, INTI - The Director General of Digital Ecosystem at the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Komdigi), Edwin Hidayat Abdullah, has highlighted a range of risks emerging alongside the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI), particularly its potential social and economic impacts in Indonesia.
Speaking at the Innovation Data and Economy (IDE) Future Forum 2026 held at Djakarta Theater Ballroom, Jakarta, on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, he emphasized that AI advancement brings both opportunities and significant challenges that must be addressed carefully.
“Based on surveys, there are three major concerns. First is social polarization, the gap between the rich and the poor is becoming wider,” he stated.
He explained that unequal access to technology and digital capabilities could accelerate economic disparity, where only certain groups benefit from AI-driven growth while others are left behind. This, he warned, could deepen existing social inequality if not managed with inclusive policies.
Cybersecurity, Misinformation, and Sustainability Risks on the Rise
The second major risk is the rising threat of cybersecurity issues and data breaches. He noted that low digital literacy makes parts of society highly vulnerable to cyber risks, including the careless sharing of personal data such as national ID cards and family registration documents on AI-powered platforms without understanding the consequences.
The third concern is the spread of misinformation, defamation, hate speech, and broader cybercrime activities. He stressed that AI can amplify the speed and scale of harmful content dissemination if not properly regulated and monitored.
Beyond these three primary risks, he also pointed to sustainability challenges, indicating that the rapid expansion of AI infrastructure and digital systems must consider environmental and long-term resource impacts.
Overall, he underscored the importance of strengthening digital literacy, regulatory frameworks, and inclusive policies to ensure that AI development benefits all layers of society rather than widening existing inequalities.
Conclusion
The rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) presents both opportunities and serious societal challenges for Indonesia. As highlighted by Edwin Hidayat Abdullah, issues such as widening inequality, cybersecurity threats, misinformation, and sustainability concerns must be addressed through stronger digital literacy, inclusive policies, and robust regulatory frameworks. Without proper intervention, AI risks deepening social divides rather than driving equitable growth.
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