Jakarta, INTI – The rapid adoption of the Internet of Things (IoT) in Indonesia, spanning industrial sectors and public services, presents significant opportunities alongside serious risks to data security and digital sovereignty. Dependence on imported devices and overseas data storage is considered to open potential gaps for cyber threats that could endanger the public. In response to this situation, technology industry players discussed challenges and solutions to strengthen the national IoT ecosystem at the Doorstop Tech Connect INTI forum held in Jakarta on Wednesday, 17 December 2025. The forum served as a strategic platform to promote education, regulation, and technological self-reliance in order to enhance Indonesia’s digital security moving forward.
Dependence on Imports Becomes the Main Challenge for National IoT
Qwords CEO Rendy Maulana Akbar stated that the most tangible challenge in building national IoT connectivity lies in the supply chain. To date, the majority of IoT components still rely on imported products, ranging from devices to data storage systems.
According to Rendy, various IoT devices such as home surveillance cameras, video systems, smart bells, and other smart household appliances are directly connected to servers located overseas. This condition not only causes latency issues but also poses serious risks to national data security and control.
Overseas Data Storage Considered Risky
Rendy highlighted that Indonesian user data stored on foreign servers is difficult for the government to access legally when incidents occur. This situation is seen as weakening the country’s position in addressing legal and digital security challenges.
In addition, the involvement of numerous IoT vendors with varying levels of transparency further increases cyber risks. He noted that users are often unaware of the presence of hidden chips or embedded software that could potentially extract data without their knowledge.
Outdated IoT Devices Can Become a Threat
Responding to questions regarding the readiness of the national security system, Rendy firmly stated that Indonesia is not yet fully prepared to face cyber threats. He cited cases where router devices had turned into “zombies” due to outdated firmware.
He explained that IoT devices that are not regularly updated or have become obsolete can transform into dangerous tools. Even household devices such as CCTV systems or smart electronic appliances can be remotely taken over and exploited for criminal activities if not properly managed.
Digital Education Must Start Early
Rendy emphasized the critical role of academia in building public digital awareness. He noted that once a person or a device is connected to the internet, it automatically becomes part of the public domain.
This awareness, he argued, must be taught from an early age in schools so that people understand the risks and responsibilities associated with using digital technology. Without continuous education, the use of IoT could instead create new problems.
Regulations and Local Assembly Need to Be Strengthened
From a policy perspective, Rendy urged the government to introduce regulations that support the growth of the domestic technology industry. Although Indonesia does not yet have a public semiconductor industry, he believes there is strong local talent capable of assembling and managing technological devices independently.
He proposed that the government should at least require IoT devices to be assembled domestically. In doing so, Indonesia can develop human resources who understand the technology, including firmware management and software updates.
Conclusion
The Doorstop Tech Connect INTI forum reaffirmed that strengthening Indonesia’s national IoT ecosystem cannot rely solely on technology adoption. Concrete measures are needed through continuous education, adaptive regulations, the strengthening of local industries, and increased cybersecurity awareness. Without such efforts, the utilization of IoT risks undermining Indonesia’s digital security and data sovereignty.
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