Indonesia is currently undergoing a massive transformation in the field of technology, especially with the emergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) which is increasingly changing various sectors, from industry to public services. This development brings great opportunities, but also presents significant challenges, particularly in terms of data security, regulation, and the ethics of technology use.

In Inside with Desi Anwar, attended by Ono W Purbo, Rector of the South Tangerang Institute of Technology and one of the key figures in the development of the internet in Indonesia, they discussed how Indonesia can make better use of advances in AI. In this episode, they talked about the challenges Indonesia faces in adopting AI technology, as well as the importance of preparing human resources (HR) that can support this development in the future.

AI Development in Indonesia: Between Opportunities and Challenges

Sectors such as healthcare, manufacturing, and even everyday life are beginning to feel the impact of artificial intelligence. AI is now used to analyze medical images for disease detection, automate production processes, and even in our smartphones, AI-based virtual assistants have become commonplace. However, Indonesia still lags behind neighboring countries such as Singapore in terms of AI implementation.

Based on the regional AI index, Indonesia scored 61.03, far below Singapore's 81.97. Nevertheless, Ono Purbo emphasized that Indonesia has great potential in terms of local AI development, as has been demonstrated by various communities and academics in the country.

The Importance of Data and Infrastructure to Drive AI Development

As a country with the largest internet community in the world with more than 60,000 RTRWNet, Indonesia shows great potential for digital technology development. However, the biggest challenge lies in data quality and management. Much of the government's data is still in physical form, which certainly hinders the effective use of AI. One of the proposed solutions is to build a secure local data infrastructure that does not depend on foreign servers.

In addition, better data management is also key to reducing bias in AI. For example, AI can be very biased if the data used does not cover the diversity that exists in Indonesia, as is the case with the recognition of regional specialties.

Human Resources and Education: The Key to Facing the AI Era

Although Indonesia has great potential for AI development, competent human resources remain a major problem. Indonesia needs around 60,000 teachers who can teach AI in depth, not just skills in using software or applications. As part of the solution, universities in Indonesia, such as the South Tangerang Institute of Technology, have begun to develop AI modules that are distributed free of charge to students and teachers.

Ono Purbo emphasizes the importance of digital literacy and computational thinking skills from an early age. In addition, the younger generation needs to be taught not only to be consumers of technology, but also producers who are capable of developing technology, creating applications, and providing real solutions to social and economic problems.

AI and Ethics: Challenges in Its Use

On the other hand, the application of AI also requires attention to ethical aspects. The misuse or uncontrolled use of AI can have negative impacts, such as AI hallucinations that provide inaccurate answers or information. This can threaten the academic, medical, and many other sectors.

Indonesians need to be given a better understanding of how AI works and its potential dangers. This technology can be a very useful tool if used wisely, but it can also backfire if not properly regulated.

Conclusion: Enhancing Collaboration and AI Literacy in Indonesia

To avoid a digital divide that could trigger social and economic inequality, Indonesia needs to improve digital literacy, build independent infrastructure, and prepare competent human resources to master AI technology. This is not only the responsibility of the government, but also the academic world and the private sector, which need to collaborate to create an inclusive and sustainable technology ecosystem.

As a country with great potential in AI development, Indonesia has the opportunity to become a leader in the application of this technology in Southeast Asia. However, the first crucial step is to strengthen the foundation of education, establish the right infrastructure, and uphold ethics in the application of AI for a brighter and more productive future.