Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
The recent World Bank report underlines the need for a whole-of-government approach to digital transformation. Given the chronic shortage of digital talent worldwide and the ageing public sector workforce, governments need to take a proactive role in creating a pipeline of skills and competencies.
Upskilling and reskilling programmes should be widely available to the current workforce, focusing on public sector employees. These programmes can help workers adapt to new technologies and methodologies, ensuring they remain effective and efficient.
In Indonesia alone, the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (Kominfo) has established a strategic partnership with the Indonesian Association for Digital Talent Development (APTDI) to enhance digital talent development. This initiative is integral to efforts to achieve the Vision of Digital Indonesia 2045, which aims to position Indonesia as a leading player in the global digital technology sector.
Deputy Minister of Kominfo, Nezar Patria, expressed his hope that this collaboration would begin a closer partnership between the government and Indonesia’s digital talent development ecosystem. “The signing ceremony of this cooperation could be the starting point for more robust synergy, both from the government and within the digital talent development ecosystem,” said Nezar Patria while witnessing the Kominfo-APTDI Cooperation Ceremony at Markas Indonesia.
In his speech, Deputy Minister Nezar Patria revealed that Indonesia needs around 9 million digital talents by 2030. Therefore, he urged all parties to accelerate developing and enhancing digital skills to face future challenges. “Remember, 2030 is not far off. It’s only about six years away. We must immediately accelerate the upskilling and reskilling of our talents to adapt to the new growth and market dynamics that will emerge in the future,” he explained.
Nezar Patria also highlighted the importance of mastering several vital technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, cloud computing, and the Internet of Things (IoT). Mastery of these technologies is envisioned to prepare Indonesia for the Industrial Revolution 4.0 and take advantage of the opportunities arising from technological advancements.
For Indonesia, investing in AI and machine learning means developing advanced systems and optimising various sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, finance, and manufacturing. For instance, AI can enhance healthcare services through predictive analytics, personalised treatment plans, and efficient patient management systems. AI-driven technologies can improve crop yields, pest management, and supply chain logistics in agriculture. Financial institutions can leverage AI for risk assessment, fraud detection, and customer service enhancements.
However, Nezar reiterates that the government should also establish policies and regulations that promote the ethical and responsible use of AI, data privacy, and cybersecurity. A robust regulatory framework can ensure that technological advancements benefit society while mitigating potential risks.
Additionally, the Deputy Minister highlighted the importance of digital talent in cybersecurity, considering the increasing number of cyber incidents targeting corporations and state institutions globally. “The world is becoming more interconnected, and advanced technologies bring certain vulnerabilities that must be responded to quickly and appropriately,” he stressed.
Deputy Minister, Nezar Patria, acknowledged that the challenges in 2030 would be even more significant, with the intensifying global geopolitical competition and rivalry among digital industries. Therefore, he hopes collaborating with APTDI will strengthen the national competitive strategy.
The cooperation between Kominfo and APTDI is optimistic to create competent digital talents and foster sustainable innovation. This collaboration is also anticipated to open new job opportunities, strengthen Indonesia’s digital economy, and enhance the nation’s competitiveness on the international stage. With support from various parties, the Vision of Digital Indonesia 2045 is envisioned to be realised, making Indonesia a prosperous and advanced country through inclusive and sustainable digital transformation.