Jakarta, INTI - The University of Jember (Unej), in collaboration with the Geospatial Information Agency (BIG), is supporting the implementation of the One Map Policy in the Tapal Kuda region to improve the accuracy of regional development data.
The Tapal Kuda region includes Banyuwangi, Situbondo, Bondowoso, Jember, Lumajang, and Probolinggo.
Unej precision agriculture expert Bayu Taruna Widjaja emphasized the importance of transforming data into visual maps within the framework of the policy.
“The transformation from numerical data into maps is what Unej, together with BIG, continues to promote in supporting the implementation of the One Map Policy,” he said.
He noted that data must be presented visually to accurately reflect spatial conditions.
This collaboration positions Unej as a strategic partner for local governments in managing geospatial data.
However, the utilization of geospatial data in the Tapal Kuda region is still considered to require further improvement.
Bayu explained that Unej assists local governments in addressing spatial issues without the need to directly engage with BIG.
“Local governments do not need to go all the way to BIG. Unej can serve as a direct partner in resolving spatial-related challenges in the Tapal Kuda region,” he stated.
He also observed that, compared to regions such as West Java, spatial data management in the area remains relatively underdeveloped.
There is still a tendency to use maps without regularly updating them with accurate data.
Leveraging AI and Spatial Data for Regional Development
Unej is encouraging a shift in mindset, from table-based data to spatial-based data, through the use of digital mapping tools such as heatmaps.
In addition, Unej leverages computing technologies and artificial intelligence for geospatial data analysis.
One example is the mapping of cocoa commodities in Banyuwangi, including the identification of locations, land area, and environmental conditions.
This data is able to provide detailed insights into distribution patterns and regional potential, serving as a foundation for developing agricultural databases.
The implementation of the One Map Policy is expected to support more targeted and effective regional development planning.
Conclusion
The collaboration between Unej and BIG highlights the growing importance of geospatial data and AI in shaping more precise and effective regional development policies. While challenges remain in optimizing data utilization, the shift toward spatial-based analysis and digital mapping marks a crucial step forward. Strengthening local capabilities and embracing technology-driven approaches will be key to unlocking the full potential of data for sustainable and well-targeted development in the Tapal Kuda region.
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