SpaceX's Starlink to Launch High-Speed Internet in Indonesia

Thu, 16 May 2024 07:24 | News | Editorial INTI

Jakarta, INTI - Indonesia is gearing up to welcome SpaceX's satellite network, Starlink, which is slated to roll out its high-speed internet services within the next two weeks. The announcement came from Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment, Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, during the ‘Jakarta Future Forum: Blue Horizons, Green Growth.’

Pandjaitan highlighted that this launch will significantly enhance internet accessibility across Indonesia, reaching a broader population. He disclosed that the Indonesian government and Starlink have already inked an agreement, securing the necessary license for operating the satellite-based internet system in the country.

At the event, Pandjaitan revealed his recent conversation with Elon Musk, the founder of SpaceX, hinting at a forthcoming announcement regarding their collaboration. He suggested that the announcement might be made in Bali soon.

Minister of Communication and Informatics, Budi Arie Setiadi, sought to reassure stakeholders that Starlink's entry into Indonesia won't adversely affect local internet providers. Setiadi clarified that Starlink's primary objective is to offer internet access to areas facing challenges due to geographical constraints.

Setiadi confirmed Starlink's acquisition of the required license to operate as a telecommunications provider in Indonesia. He further disclosed Starlink's plan to conduct network testing in Indonesia's new capital city, Nusantara, in mid-May, with full-fledged operations anticipated to commence later this year.

The minister stressed the objective of enhancing internet speed while ensuring equitable distribution of internet access, particularly in remote regions grappling with connectivity issues.