Minister of Communications and Information reveals government efforts to bridge digital divide at APT forum

Tribunnews.com reporter Reynas Abdila reports

TRIBUNNEWS.COM, Jakarta – Minister of Communications and Information Budi Ali Setiadi Encourage inclusive digital transformation through the Asia-Pacific Telecommunity (APT) Forum.

He said every country could harness the potential of information and communications technologies (ICT) to narrow the digital divide and support sustainable growth.

“Let us work together to create a more inclusive and sustainable digital future,” the Minister of Communications and Information said at the opening ceremony of the 21st APT Telecommunications/ICT Development Forum (ADF-21) in Central Jakarta on Tuesday (8/6/2024).

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The Indonesian government has developed a comprehensive plan, “Digital Indonesia Vision 2045,” based on an ecosystem, sector, and territorial approach to overcome the digital divide.

“By 2023, only 52% of rural residents will use the internet, compared to 80% of urban residents. ICT pilot projects in rural areas are important to narrow this gap and ensure digital benefits for all Indonesians,” the Minister of Communications and Information explained.

Minister Budi Ali revealed Indonesia’s efforts to enhance connectivity through equitable development of digital infrastructure.

Starting with 5G telecommunication networks, fiber optic cables, base transceiver stations (BTS) and the SATRIA-1 multi-purpose satellite.

“This infrastructure is important for Indonesia’s digital economy and inclusive growth. This initiative aims to bridge the digital divide and provide reliable, fast internet to all Indonesians,” he said.

The Minister of Communications and Information hoped that the ADF-21 meeting would be a fruitful forum for discussion and enhance regional cooperation in the field of telecommunications.

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The meeting, which will be held from August 6 to 8, 2024, will discuss the three pillars of the APT Strategic Plan 2024-2026, namely digital connectivity, digital transformation, and trust and security.

“It is a great honour for me to welcome all the delegates to this three-day forum. “I hope that the upcoming discussions will maximise the potential of ICT in the Asia-Pacific region,” he said.

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDO) report that digital technologies contribute up to 70% to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda and the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals.