Jakarta, February 16, 2025 – The Europe Today: Indonesia has the potential to emerge as a leader in the adoption and development of artificial intelligence (AI) among emerging economies, according to Meutya Hafid, the Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs. Hafid made this statement during the opening of the Congress of the Indonesian Women Journalists Forum (FJPI), which was held virtually on Saturday.
In her speech, Minister Hafid noted that while European countries, particularly France, have set their sights on becoming global leaders in AI, the competition between the United States and China remains at the forefront of global AI advancements. She emphasized that AI should not be solely driven by the ambitions of the largest economies, but must also take into account the needs and contributions of emerging economies, such as Indonesia, and the broader Global South.
“AI should not be something dictated by big countries; it must also take into account emerging economies like Indonesia and other countries in the Global South,” Hafid said. She stressed the importance of considering the perspectives and needs of developing countries when formulating global AI governance policies.
Minister Hafid further underlined that it is crucial for developing countries to play an active role in global AI development, just as their developed counterparts do. For this to occur, she emphasized the need for an approach that ensures equality among nations.
“Indonesia hopes that the Global South will not only be seen as a market for AI technologies, but as a region capable of producing innovators who can contribute to the field,” Hafid added.
She also expressed optimism that the 2025 FJPI Congress would serve as a platform to prepare and empower women journalists to adapt to the rapid developments in AI. This, she believes, would enhance the quality and accessibility of information, particularly in the evolving digital landscape.
Minister Hafid highlighted Indonesia’s commitment to promoting inclusive AI governance during her participation at the Ministerial Meeting of the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) in Paris on February 9. At this meeting, she advocated for AI policies that are equitable, inclusive, and secure, while also harnessing AI to support sustainable development efforts.
Through these initiatives, Indonesia aims to ensure that AI development benefits all nations, especially those in the Global South, contributing to a more inclusive global technological future.
