In the sprawling archipelago of Indonesia lies its bustling capital, Jakarta, a city pulsating with energy and innovation. Amidst its dynamic landscape, a groundbreaking development is on the horizon, one that promises to revolutionize the way Indonesians connect with the world: the imminent arrival of Starlink.
Starlink, the brainchild of visionary entrepreneur Elon Musk, represents a constellation of satellites poised to deliver lightning-fast internet connectivity to the farthest reaches of the globe. This technological marvel is now set to make its mark in the heart of the Indonesian capital, as revealed by Bahlil Lahadalia, the Minister of Investment and Head of the Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM).
As Indonesia embraces the dawn of a new digital era, SpaceX, the aerospace company behind Starlink, is navigating administrative processes to invest in the country. Encouragingly, Bahlil notes that SpaceX faces no significant hurdles in entering the Indonesian market, signaling a smooth trajectory for the venture.
"Only a few requirements need to be fulfilled. We are progressing steadily," remarked Bahlil, as quoted by CNBC Indonesia.
The aspirations of SpaceX were laid bare earlier this month when Bahlil disclosed the company's ambition to establish a network of super-fast internet leveraging satellite technology.
At the core of SpaceX's endeavors lies Starlink, a provider of satellite-based internet services along with ground terminals. Presently, Starlink operates scores of satellites orbiting in low Earth orbit, beaming internet signals across vast expanses.
A subsidiary of PT Telkom Indonesia (Persero) Tbk., Telkomsat, has also announced collaboration with Starlink. Telkomsat secured the rights to utilize Starlink satellites from the Ministry of Communication and Informatics (Kominfo) since June 2022. Thus far, Starlink has primarily catered to corporate clients, yet to penetrate the retail market.
The strategic plan entails deploying Starlink satellites to fortify the internet infrastructure of the Telkom Group, complementing existing fiber optic networks.
However, recent statements from Budi Arie Setiadi, the Minister of Communication and Informatics, suggest that progress on Starlink's provision of internet services to retail customers is pending.
"In terms of technical aspects, not yet, but we are open to anyone willing to participate in the telecommunications business in Indonesia, provided they adhere to Indonesian regulations," remarked Budi at the minister's residence in Widya Chandra complex, Jakarta.
As Indonesia eagerly anticipates the advent of Starlink, the possibilities are boundless. From empowering businesses with seamless connectivity to bridging the digital divide in remote regions, Starlink's arrival heralds a new era of connectivity and opportunity for the people of Indonesia. As the nation marches towards a digital future, Starlink stands poised to illuminate the path forward, unlocking the vast potential of high-speed internet in the heart of the Indonesian archipelago.
