KBRN, Kutai Kartanegara: The Communication and Information Agency (Diskominfo) of East Kalimantan Province has launched a strategic initiative to overcome the region’s significant geographical barriers, successfully distributing free internet access to 29 villages across Kutai Kartanegara (Kukar) Regency.

Shifting the focus to the strategic technical approach, the program bypasses traditional infrastructure limitations by utilizing innovative wireless solutions to achieve digital equity.

Bambang Kukilo Argo Suryo, Acting Head of the Information Technology and Communication and Cryptography Division at the East Kalimantan Diskominfo, explained in Kutai Kartanegara on Friday, October 24, 2025, that the Village Internet program is being realized by distributing wireless internet devices, specifically Orbit Telkomsel.

"The distribution of these devices is a tactical step to expand digital reach in areas that are geographically difficult to access," said Bambang, as quoted by antaranews.com.

He affirmed that the program is a direct manifestation of the East Kalimantan Governor’s vision to ensure every citizen, including those in remote areas, can benefit from internet access.

“We want the people in the remote areas to also be able to enjoy free internet. The use of technology like Orbit is a temporary solution before the fiber optic (FO) network can fully reach all regions,” he said.

Kutai Kartanegara Regency was noted as one of the largest recipients of this device aid. Bambang indicated that the agency will continuously evaluate the program to help these villages "upgrade" to more stable networks, such as fiber optic, in the future.

Bambang admitted that the vast geographical area of East Kalimantan presents significant challenges. Consequently, the agency is adopting a combination of diverse technologies, ranging from Fiber Optic (FO), Orbit, to Starlink, tailored to the specific terrain and local electricity infrastructure.

“Not all villages can be reached by optical cable. We must be adaptive with the available technology so that the entire community can remain connected,” he explained.

Beyond geographical hurdles, the availability of stable electricity is also a critical concern, as several villages still rely on independent power sources. Bambang expressed hope that internet access itself would become a catalyst for development.

“The internet will not function optimally without a stable electricity supply. We hope that the presence of the internet will actually encourage the acceleration of electricity infrastructure development in those villages,” he noted.

Meanwhile, at the regency level, the Application and Informatics Division of Kutai Kartanegara Diskominfo played a crucial facilitation role. Ery Hariyono, Head of the Kukar Diskominfo Applications and Informatics Division, confirmed that the distribution of devices is paired with essential technical assistance and training for village administrators.

“We provide assistance and facilitate the entire series of activities, from distribution to technical training. The goal is so that these devices can be operated and utilized maximally by the village community,” said Ery.

He is optimistic that connecting more villages to the internet will stimulate growth in public services, education, and the local economic sector. “The internet has now transformed into the main pillar for education, business, and public services. We hope this program becomes a trigger for other villages to be brave enough to develop digitally,” Ery concluded. ***