Indonesia Pushes Research to Drive Technology and Industry Growth

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia is seeking to transform itself from a technology user into a technology creator by strengthening the link between research, innovation, companies, and industry. Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, Brian Yuliarto, made the statement during the Indonesia Innovator Award and Indonesia Innovator Lecture 2026 in Jakarta on Monday, August 10, 2026.

He said Indonesia already has sufficient research and technological capabilities to make a major leap in innovation. However, the country still faces challenges in creating a pathway that can connect research findings with business development and industrial production.

“What we need to build strongly is a path that connects discoveries to companies, and companies to industries. As researchers, we know that the valley of death is there,” Brian said.

According to him, many innovative products have been developed by Indonesian researchers but have yet to successfully move from the research stage into industry. He said stronger collaboration among universities, research institutions, businesses, and industries is needed to ensure research can generate greater added value for society.

Brian also encouraged the development of advanced technology-based industries to strengthen Indonesia’s industrial competitiveness and increase economic value. He pointed to the experience of countries that have successfully developed technology companies through strong connections between research institutions, universities, and industry.

The initiative is part of efforts to strengthen Indonesia’s technological independence, particularly during the 31st National Technology Awakening Day in 2026. Research outcomes are expected to move beyond publications and prototypes and develop into products, companies, and industries capable of addressing public needs and competing globally.

Meanwhile, Head of the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Arif Satria, said technological development should be measured not only by its level of sophistication but also by its practical benefits to society. “We are gradually continuing to direct research for impact to create innovations that have added value and a meaningful level of benefit,” Arif said.

BRIN is strengthening research and innovation through collaboration with small and medium-sized enterprises, industries, and international partners in advanced technology development. The government is also promoting research in strategic areas, including food, energy, health, the environment, advanced materials, digital technology, and artificial intelligence, while supporting government policymaking through the Red and White Development Policy Research Program (PRIMA).