Jakarta, INTI - Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs Nezar Patria highlighted the use of digital technology by communities in Maros Regency, South Sulawesi, as a tangible example of how connectivity can create meaningful benefits for local communities, particularly in aquaculture.
The initiative is being implemented through the development of a wanamina or silvofishery area, where digital tools are used to monitor and manage fish ponds in a measurable, data-driven manner.
The program is being carried out through collaboration between local communities, the Research Center for Brackishwater Aquaculture and Fisheries Extension, and Common Room.
“We are seeing how communities are using digital technology to measure salinity and temperature, record the data as big data, and develop projections for the future,” Nezar said while opening the Rural ICT Camp 2026.
Digital Data Helps Fish Farmers Respond to Climate Change
Nezar said the initiative demonstrates how digital connectivity can help communities strengthen food self-sufficiency while improving their resilience to climate change.
Extreme climate conditions pose significant challenges to the fisheries sector. Prolonged dry seasons, for example, can increase water salinity and affect the survival of commodities such as fish and crabs.
Data collected through digital technologies can help fish farmers take mitigation measures more quickly and efficiently.
Nezar said the initiative in Maros could serve as a model for community-based digital transformation in other regions.
“The success of a community should not be measured by how many applications are developed or how many devices are installed. It should be measured by whether communities become more empowered, ecosystems are better protected, and people’s livelihoods become more resilient,” Nezar said.
Government Expands Connectivity to Underserved Areas
The government is committed to supporting community-led technology initiatives by expanding telecommunications networks to areas that are not commercially attractive to service providers.
Nezar expressed hope that the Rural ICT Camp 2026 could serve as a laboratory and testing ground for evaluating how connectivity-enabled technologies can be effectively used to address community needs.
“We hope this initiative will produce models for internet utilization that can be further developed and replicated in communities across Indonesia,” Nezar said.
Conclusion
The Maros initiative demonstrates how digital connectivity can deliver practical benefits at the community level. By combining connectivity, data, and digital tools with local fisheries practices, communities can improve aquaculture management while strengthening food security and resilience to climate change.
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