RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia has called for the development of responsible and locally relevant artificial intelligence (AI) as countries across the Asia-Pacific region accelerate digital transformation. The message was delivered during the Pacific Asia Conference on Information Systems (PACIS) 2026, highlighting the need for AI to strengthen national innovation rather than simply adopting global technologies.

Director General of Research and Development at the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, Fauzan Adziman, delivered the remarks as a panelist at PACIS 2026 in Jakarta on Monday, 6 July 2026. Held under the theme “Leapfrogging the Future with Artificial Intelligence,” the conference brought together academicians, researchers, industry leaders, and policymakers to discuss the future of information systems and AI in the Asia-Pacific region.

Speaking during the panel session The Changing Landscape of IS in the Age of AI in Asia Pacific, Fauzan said Indonesia should build an AI ecosystem that strengthens technological sovereignty, research capacity, talent development, and responsible governance. He affirmed that the government, universities, industry, and society must work together so the country becomes not only a user of AI but also a developer of technologies that address national priorities.

“For companies and industries, we believe investment must go beyond simply adopting AI by building long-term capacity and capabilities. For educational institutions, our responsibility is to produce talent, research, and real innovation, while for society, AI literacy is the key,” Fauzan said.

He also stressed that responsibility must become the guiding principle in both the development and use of artificial intelligence. “Whether as users or developers, we need to use AI and develop AI responsibly so that it benefits society and strengthens human capabilities,” he said.

Professor Carol Hsu of the University of Sydney, said AI governance cannot be separated from each country's social, political, cultural, and infrastructural context. She argued that information systems provide a broader socio-technical perspective because AI affects not only technology but also the relationship between people, organizations, and society.

The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology said it will continue encouraging universities and research institutions to play a more active role in developing inclusive, impactful, and responsible AI. The ministry expects stronger AI capabilities to accelerate Indonesia's digital transformation while enhancing research independence, developing national talent, and supporting sustainable development.