Ad
Fri, 10 Jan 2025 07:38 | Digital Transformation | Editorial INTI
This article is based on an exclusive interview with Dr. Adhiguna Mahendra, M.Sc, M.Eng, a renowned Artificial Intelligence (AI) expert in Indonesia. Dr. Mahendra is a faculty member at Swiss German University and the Lead Instructor at AI SmartX Academy. This is the sixth and final article in a series of six exploring the role of AI in supporting the vision of Asta Cita, as championed by President Prabowo Subianto. This article elaborates on the strategic steps, challenges, and the importance of managing AI technology ethically and in alignment with Indonesia’s cultural and spiritual values.
Jakarta, INTI - The implementation of AI in Indonesia is a strategic effort to accelerate comprehensive national transformation. The vision of Asta Cita encompasses eight core objectives, including strengthening national ideology, developing human resources, and fostering self-reliance across various sectors.
According to Dr. Mahendra, AI serves as a catalyst for achieving this vision. “AI is not just a technology; it is an ecosystem that can influence every aspect of life. With AI, we can accelerate transformation in education, energy, food security, defense, and much more,” he explained.
This national transformation goes beyond adopting advanced technology—it focuses on ensuring that the benefits of technology are distributed equitably to all Indonesians.
Strategic Steps in Implementing AI
1. Building Robust Digital Infrastructure
One of the first steps is strengthening digital infrastructure. Indonesia requires stable internet networks that cover all regions, including underdeveloped, frontier, and outermost areas (3T). “Without adequate infrastructure, the implementation of AI will struggle to achieve its full potential,” stated Dr. Mahendra.
National data centers and access to cloud computing technology are also critical components. These infrastructures enable efficient data management and support the development of AI-based applications across various sectors.
2. Developing Human Resources (HR)
AI technology demands skilled professionals with specialized knowledge. Therefore, training and education programs in AI must be prioritized. “We need a workforce that not only understands the technology but can also develop and manage it effectively,” Dr. Mahendra emphasized.
He highlighted the importance of collaboration between the government, academia, and private sectors to create AI-focused curricula in schools and universities. Additionally, professional training programs are needed to expedite the adoption of AI technologies in the workplace.
3. Building a Collaborative Ecosystem
Cross-sector collaboration is key to the successful implementation of AI. Governments, industries, and academics must work together to formulate policies, develop technology, and ensure its proper implementation. “This cooperation will not only accelerate digital transformation but also create a healthy and sustainable AI ecosystem,” Dr. Mahendra added.
Challenges in AI Implementation in Indonesia
Despite its immense potential, AI implementation in Indonesia faces several challenges that cannot be overlooked.
Digital Divide
One of the most significant challenges is the digital divide. According to a report by the Indonesian Internet Service Providers Association (APJII), over 30 million Indonesians still lack internet access. This is a major obstacle to ensuring that AI technology benefits all citizens.
“If we want this technology to be inclusive, the government must accelerate digital infrastructure development, especially in the 3T regions,” said Dr. Mahendra.
Low Technological Literacy
Another challenge is the low level of technological literacy among the public. Many people are unaware of what AI is and how it can improve their lives. Massive digital literacy programs are needed to raise awareness and understanding of AI’s benefits.
Ethical and Security Concerns
Dr. Mahendra also highlighted the importance of ethical management in AI implementation. “AI is a powerful tool, but if not regulated properly, it can lead to issues such as privacy violations, discrimination, or data misuse,” he warned. Clear regulations and a strong ethical framework are needed to ensure that this technology is used for the greater good.
Real-Time Data and Facts on AI Implementation
Indonesia has begun to adopt AI across various sectors, showing significant results. In agriculture, precision farming technologies powered by AI have increased productivity by up to 20% in regions such as West Java and South Sulawesi, according to data from the Ministry of Agriculture.
In the energy sector, PLN reported that AI-based systems monitoring the national power grid have reduced average power outage times from 300 minutes per year to 210 minutes per year. Meanwhile, in national security, AI-powered drones developed for border surveillance have reduced airspace violations by 15% over the past two years, as reported by the National Cyber and Encryption Agency (BSSN).
However, data from the World Bank indicates that Indonesia still lags in digital infrastructure investment compared to other Southeast Asian countries. To address this, the government has launched the Merdeka Signal Program, which aims to provide internet access nationwide by 2025.
Preserving Values and Ethics in AI Implementation
Dr. Mahendra emphasized that AI research and implementation must always be grounded in Indonesia’s spiritual and cultural values. “This technology is incredibly powerful, but we must ensure that its use does not erode the core values we have upheld for generations,” he stated.
For example, the use of AI in public surveillance must respect individual privacy, while data used by AI systems should be protected with high-security standards to prevent misuse. “AI is a tool to strengthen the nation, not to undermine its identity,” he added.
Conclusion from the Interview Series: Towards a Self-Reliant and Advanced Indonesia with AI
Through this six-article series, we have explored various dimensions of AI implementation in Indonesia, from food security and energy to national defense and comprehensive digital transformation. A recurring theme in each discussion has been the importance of managing this technology with strong ethics and alignment with national values.
As the series concludes, Dr. Mahendra leaves us with a crucial message: “AI is an extraordinary technology that can propel Indonesia into a better future. However, its success depends on how we manage it wisely and responsibly.”
Digital transformation represents a significant opportunity to create a more advanced, independent, and sovereign Indonesia. With collective commitment, the vision of Asta Cita can become a reality, positioning Indonesia as a technological leader in the region.
Jakarta, INTI – WhatsApp is known as a messaging app that prioritizes user security with its E...
11 jam yang lalu | Internet and Telecommunication
Jakarta, INTI – Indonesia is increasingly demonstrating its commitment to artificial intellige...
11 jam yang lalu | Artificial Intelligence
Jakarta, INTI – The Ministry of Communication and Digital (Komdigi) is currently drafting regu...
18 jam yang lalu | Digital Transformation
Jakarta, INTI – In today's digital era, artificial intelligence (AI) has become an essenti...
1 hari yang lalu | Artificial Intelligence
Jakarta, INTI – In today’s rapidly evolving digital era, artificial intelligence (AI) ha...
1 hari yang lalu | Digital Transformation