RI and France Boost Cooperation in Digital Innovation

KBRN, Jakarta: Indonesia is strengthening cooperation with France to drive digital economic growth.

Facilitated by the Communications and Digital Ministry, this collaboration covers key areas, including startup development, artificial intelligence (AI) regulation, and child protection in cyberspace.

Communications and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid emphasized that the Ministry plays a leading role in Indonesia's sustainable and sovereign digital transformation.

"The ministry's scope has expanded, covering telecommunications infrastructure and digital ecosystem policies," Meutya said in Jakarta on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, as quoted by komdigi.go.id.

President Prabowo Subianto's vision positions digitalization as a pillar of public services, education, and community empowerment. With over 210 million active internet users, Indonesia faces challenges and has vast opportunities to build a safe and productive digital space.

One significant step in this effort is the launch of the Government Regulation on Electronic System Governance for Child Protection (PP TUNAS). Under this regulation, children's access to social media is restricted to those aged 16 to 18, aiming to create a safer digital environment.

Minister Meutya stressed that ensuring a secure digital space remains a top priority. "This (PP TUNAS launch) is a bold and progressive step," she said.

In its efforts to boost the digital economy, the Ministry has identified the gaming industry as a strategic sector. Collaborating with the Indonesian Game Association (AGI), initiatives like the Indonesia Game Developer Exchange (IGDX) and streamlined licensing aim to strengthen the local gaming market.

The Ministry also works closely with local media to expand digital literacy, particularly in 3T regions (frontier, outermost, and underdeveloped areas). This mission seeks to provide equitable and inclusive digital education nationwide.

Meanwhile, strengthening Indonesia's digital infrastructure is key to its collaboration with France. Current projects include developing a national data center and the SATRIA-1 satellite launch. Both nations are also exploring partnerships in startup development and digital innovation ecosystems.

The Ministry's broader strategy prioritizes digital security, infrastructure development, and digital human resource training. These pillars form the foundation for Indonesia's transition into a self-reliant and globally competitive digital economy. ***