Pioneering AI: Indonesia First in ASEAN to Finalize UNESCO Readiness Evaluation

JAKARTA, RAKYAT NEWS – Indonesia has officially become the first country in the ASEAN region to complete the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Readiness Assessment using the methodology developed by UNESCO.

During a ceremony in South Jakarta, Deputy Minister of Communication and Informatics Nezar Patria highlighted that the assessment results provide a roadmap for formulating effective AI policies in Indonesia and can serve as a reference for other Southeast Asian nations.

“We are at a crucial juncture in our digital transformation. This AI readiness report offers profound insights into Indonesia’s capabilities across various dimensions,” Nezar stated.

The UNESCO assessment identifies opportunities for the Indonesian government to enhance community engagement in AI development. One key recommendation emphasizes the need to focus on cultivating digital talent, addressing existing gaps in knowledge and skills among the population.

“We have observed a significant and aggressive growth in AI application within industries; however, there remains a notable knowledge and skills gap in civil society,” he explained.

The Ministry of Communication and Informatics plans to further analyze the UNESCO report to guide future programs aimed at developing Indonesia’s digital talent.

Maki Katsuno-Hayashikawa, Director and Representative of UNESCO Jakarta, commended Indonesia for its proactive approach to AI development. “UNESCO appreciates the commitment of the Ministry of Communication and Informatics, national AI experts, local governments, and communities in supporting this initiative,” she remarked.

The RAM-AI report also highlights critical areas, including the social and economic impacts of AI technology. Concerns have been raised about job displacement, particularly in rural areas, while urban communities emphasize the need for ethical and responsible AI adoption.

The report points out disparities in information access that could exacerbate biases and discrimination, noting that AI research in Indonesia lags behind neighboring countries, which hampers technological progress.

It suggests the establishment of a National AI Agency to enhance cross-sector coordination and ensure ethical governance of AI in line with global standards.

The report underscores the importance of developing capacities, particularly in equal access to education and AI infrastructure, and recommends inclusive AI utilization involving researchers and startups beyond Java.

This significant milestone positions Indonesia as a leader in AI readiness in the region, paving the way for further advancements in digital technology. (Uki Ruknuddin)