Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono is pushing for the acceleration of national digital transformation to strengthen Indonesia's telecommunications infrastructure, data sovereignty, and cybersecurity.
Ibas, as stated in a statement received said Indonesia must take a strategic position in the development of future technologies, including 5G, 6G, artificial intelligence (AI), and national data management.
"Indonesia should not just be a market, but a vital part of the global digital ecosystem. Universities, industry, and the government must collaborate in research and implementation," he said.
According to him, Indonesia possesses significant human resources (HR) to win global digital competition. To achieve this, all stakeholders need to ensure that national talent receives adequate support.
"The MPR RI feels a moral responsibility in developing this nation. We don't lack talent; what we must do is ensure that those talents receive support so that their potential can develop optimally," he said.
He emphasized that digital transformation is a crucial factor in Indonesia's goal of becoming the largest economic power in Southeast Asia. However, various challenges remain to be overcome.
One of the challenges he highlighted was the disparity in access to and quality of digital services across regions. Therefore, telecommunications infrastructure development must be viewed as a long-term strategic investment.
"Telecommunications infrastructure is the backbone of digital communications. Every BTS ( base transceiver station ) tower we build, every kilometer of fiber optic cable we deploy, is a crucial investment in supporting Indonesia's digital transformation," Ibas said.
In addition to expanding digital access, he also emphasized the importance of strengthening cybersecurity and protecting personal data amidst increasing global digital threats. Technological developments must be balanced with appropriate regulations and governance.
He stated that the threat of cyberattacks is increasingly real and serious. "Therefore, protecting personal data and implementing the Personal Data Protection Law must be a shared concern," he said.
Ibas further urged all elements of the nation to view digital transformation as a national strategic agenda that requires courage, collaboration, and a long-term vision.
"Digital transformation is not just about technology, but about the future of the nation. If we can build strong infrastructure, develop superior talent, maintain data sovereignty, and strengthen national innovation, Indonesia will not only be a user of technology but also a creator and leader in the global digital economy," he said.
