Indosat Launches $200m AI Centre in Indonesia
Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison (IOH), Indonesia’s second-largest telecommunications provider, has officially launched the country’s first artificial intelligence (AI) experience center at Solo Technopark. This initiative, supported by a robust 5G network infrastructure and technology from Huawei, marks a significant step in IOH's commitment to advancing digital transformation in Indonesia.
The facility is the first phase of IOH’s ambitious $200 million investment strategy aimed at establishing an expanded AI Centre of Excellence. This center will focus on developing AI-cloud infrastructure and providing technical training programs to enhance the skills of the workforce in Indonesia.
The inauguration of the Digital Intelligence Operations Center (DIOC) was attended by Vikram Sinha, President Director and CEO of IOH, and Simon Lin, President of Huawei Asia-Pacific Region. Their collaboration underscores the strategic partnership between the two companies, aimed at positioning Indonesia within the global AI landscape.
Vikram Sinha emphasized that the development of the AI Experience Center aligns with IOH’s mission to expand digital access across Indonesia. “Indosat’s larger purpose is to connect and digitally empower every Indonesian, which inspired the creation of the country’s first-ever AI Experience Center at Solo Technopark,” he stated.
This initiative is part of IOH's broader strategy to enhance its existing data center facilities, which provide cloud computing services and Information and Communications Technology (ICT) solutions throughout Indonesia. The partnership with Huawei reflects IOH's commitment to collaborating with global technology firms, a practice they refer to as ‘gotong royong’ (mutual cooperation).
The AI Experience Center will showcase various AI applications, particularly in smart city management systems that leverage 5G technology, which offers higher data speeds and reduced latency compared to previous generations. The center will also explore AI implementations across creative industries, including the arts and food service sectors.
“This initiative marks a major leap in our efforts to empower Indonesia through AI,” Vikram noted. “It serves as a showcase for cutting-edge AI technologies applicable across various sectors, including smart city management optimized by 5G, as well as the arts, food and beverage industries, and other creative fields.”
In addition to showcasing AI innovations, the center will serve as a training hub for students, civil servants, and community groups, focusing on how AI can enhance productivity. Training programs will cover essential topics such as machine learning fundamentals and practical applications of AI systems.
“In addition to showcasing the latest AI innovations, the center serves as a training hub, offering programs for students, public servants, and the wider community on how AI can boost productivity and open up new opportunities,” Vikram explained.
The establishment of the AI Centre of Excellence represents a significant expansion of IOH's data center and digital infrastructure portfolio. Vikram announced plans to invest $200 million in creating a larger AI Centre of Excellence, which will focus on AI-cloud infrastructure and the development of human capital in AI.
“As Indonesia embarks on a technological revolution, the center represents more than just the beginning of a new era – it marks the launch of a journey that will elevate Indonesia to a leadership position within the global AI community,” he concluded.
With this initiative, Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of AI in Indonesia, fostering innovation, and enhancing the country’s digital capabilities.