Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs Nezar Patria states that technological independence is a form of modern nationalism. The struggle to maintain national sovereignty has shifted to the digital realm. He emphasizes the importance of building a digital ecosystem to achieve this.
Jakarta, VIVA – Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs (Wamenkomdigi) Nezar Patria views technological independence as a new form of nationalism in the modern era. The effort to preserve national sovereignty has moved to the digital space, where building a digital ecosystem is essential.
"The aspiration for technological sovereignty is one act of nationalism, and to achieve digital independence, developing a digital ecosystem is crucial," he said in Jakarta on Tuesday, November 11, 2025.
According to Nezar, digital infrastructure in Indonesia is now nearly widespread, built by both government and private sectors. However, infrastructure alone is insufficient; it must deliver meaningful connectivity that impacts social, economic, and cultural lives of the people.
"The built infrastructure must provide meaningful connectivity or meaningful connectivity, impactful, giving impact to social, economic, and cultural life of the community," he explained.
The government not only focuses on infrastructure but also provides training to produce digital talents skilled in advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI). Indonesia needs technology products aligned with Pancasila and local culture.
"For example, for AI Large Language Model (LLM) like ChatGPT, we master the technology, we create an LLM made by the nation's children that respects Pancasila values, without cultural bias due to differences in values and culture between Indonesia and the AI-creating country," he stated.
Additionally, the Ministry of Communication and Digital conducts digital literacy campaigns so the public uses technology wisely and avoids cyber crimes.
"With a well-literate society, they can use the built connectivity for activities that bring benefits to themselves and at the same time stay away from all negative impacts," Nezar added.
He also assesses that AI is smart but lacks empathy or critical thinking like humans, so it cannot fully replace human roles.