Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — In response to the evolving challenges of the digital age, Indonesia’s Minister of Communication and Digital, Meutya Hafid, has unveiled her ministry’s top priorities for the first 100 days in office. According to the press released by Kominfo, the agenda includes fighting digital crime, creating a safer online space, and ensuring equitable internet access across Indonesia’s most remote regions.
“As requested, we are focusing on issues that have been raised by the public, especially those related to digital security,” Meutya said at the Ministry Office, Jakarta, Monday (21/10). “The public has expressed serious concerns about issues like digital safety, illegal gambling, and unlawful online lending platforms.”
The minister emphasized that addressing digital crime, particularly online gambling and illegal loan services, is a top priority given the growing public outcry. These forms of cybercrime have become increasingly pervasive, posing threats to users across the country.
Meutya also highlighted the dangers of the digital world to children, outlining plans to create a child-friendly internet and safer online space for children. Protecting children from online threats such as pornography, violence, child trafficking, and crimes associated with human trafficking will be a key focus as the ministry works to reform Indonesia’s digital space.
Expanding Internet Access in Remote Regions
Another major focus for Meutya hafid ministry in its first 100 days is ensuring widespread internet access throughout Indonesia. The minister underscored the importance of improving internet connectivity in Indonesia’s remote and underdeveloped regions. To achieve this, Meutya and her two deputy ministers will visit these regions, particularly in eastern Indonesia, to assess connectivity issues.
“Currently, we’ve reached 98% connectivity, but the speed remains uneven. Hopefully, we can achieve faster and more reliable connections for everyone soon,” Meutya added.
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She also reaffirmed her commitment to advancing the digitalization of government services. This initiative aligns with President Prabowo Subianto’s directives, which stress the importance of digitalization in enhancing the efficiency of public services and government operations.
A New Name to Reflect the Digital Era
The Ministry of Communication and Informatics (Kominfo) has been renamed the Ministry of Communication and Digital, a change implemented under the leadership of President Prabowo Subianto. Meutya explained that this shift reflects the ministry’s focus on tackling the challenges posed by rapid digital transformation.
“This change responds to the demands of the times and aligns with President Prabowo’s Asta Cita program,” Meutya said, referring to the President’s strategic vision for Indonesia. “Digital issues are now a key focus, so the ministry’s name was changed from Communication and Informatics to Communication and Digital.”
In her role, Meutya is supported by two deputy ministers, Angga Raka Prabowo and Nezar Patria, who will assist in overseeing the ministry’s ambitious agenda.
By focusing on digital crime, child protection, and internet access, the Ministry of Communication and Digital aims to modernize Indonesia’s digital landscape and ensure a safer, more connected future for all citizens.
(Raidi/Agung)
