As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to redefine global industries, Indonesia and China have taken a bold step forward by enhancing bilateral cooperation in the development of AI and the digital economy. This partnership, officially strengthened during Chinese Premier Li Qiang’s visit to Jakarta in May 2025, signals a new era of strategic collaboration between the two Asian powerhouses.
A Shared Vision for AI Advancement
Premier Li Qiang emphasized the importance of mutual trust and strategic alignment between China and Indonesia. The cooperation will encompass AI technology development, digital infrastructure, data policy, and talent exchange.
“China is ready to work with Indonesia to enhance strategic coordination and jointly tackle global challenges,” Premier Li stated during a bilateral meeting held in Jakarta.
This collaboration is not a standalone initiative—it builds on earlier talks held in early 2025, where both nations expressed interest in establishing a Southeast Asian AI Innovation Hub based in Indonesia. The goal is to empower the region with technological breakthroughs while reducing dependency on Western tech ecosystems.
Key Areas of Collaboration
The AI partnership between China and Indonesia will focus on three main pillars:
1. Joint AI Research and Development
Universities and tech firms from both countries are expected to co-develop AI solutions in sectors such as healthcare, education, agriculture, and smart cities.
2. Digital Infrastructure and Smart City Innovation
China has proposed support for developing Indonesia’s 5G networks, cloud computing infrastructure, and AI-powered urban planning systems.
3. Talent Development and Digital Literacy
Scholarships, exchange programs, and AI training modules will be offered to Indonesian youth and professionals to help build a strong domestic talent pipeline.
“Technology investment means nothing without human capital. Developing digital skills is the key to inclusive growth,” a representative from Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication and Informatics said during the conference.
Why This Matters for Indonesia
Indonesia, home to over 270 million people and one of the fastest-growing digital economies in Southeast Asia, stands to benefit greatly from this collaboration. Some of the potential advantages include:
- Acceleration of digital transformation in government and private sectors
- Better integration of AI in public services
- Opportunities for local startups and SMEs to access cutting-edge technologies
- Stronger positioning as a regional tech innovation hub
Challenges to Address
Despite the promising outlook, Indonesia must prepare to navigate challenges such as:
- Ensuring data privacy and cyber-security standards
- Avoiding overreliance on foreign tech ecosystems
- Reducing the digital gap between urban and rural areas
- Creating adaptable, transparent, and future-proof regulatory frameworks
“This collaboration with China should not merely make Indonesia a technology consumer—it must push us toward technological sovereignty,” commented a leading digital policy analyst based in Jakarta.
Conclusion
The deepening of China–Indonesia cooperation in artificial intelligence reflects a mutual understanding of the importance of technology in shaping future economies. With a balanced approach that includes regulatory oversight, local talent development, and strategic infrastructure investment, this partnership has the potential to transform Indonesia into a key player in the global AI ecosystem.
إِنَّمَا الْأَعْمَالُ بِالنِّيَّاتِ، وَإِنَّمَا لِكُلِّ امْرِئٍ مَا نَوَى
Artinya: “Sesungguhnya segala amal tergantung niatnya, dan setiap orang akan mendapatkan sesuai dengan apa yang diniatkan.”
[HR. Bukhari dan Muslim]
