Recently, the Ministry of Communication and Informatics, together with the Federal Ministry of Digital Transport (BMDV-Ministry of Digital and Transportation) of Germany, held the Indonesia-German Digital Dialogue (IGDD) in Hannover, Germany. The meeting was one of the follow-ups to the Joint Declaration of Intent (JDoI), a cooperation between both parties in digital transformation.
A Joint Declaration of Intent (JDoI) is an official agreement signed by two or more parties to express their intention to cooperate in specific areas. It outlines the shared goals, objectives and areas of collaboration between the parties involved. The JDoI serves as a framework for cooperation and can cover various fields namely, economy, technology, education, or culture.
In the first IGDD meeting, both parties exchanged information and discussed the development of digital policies. The meeting emphasised on “The Objectives and Priorities of the Indonesia-German Digital Dialogue”, which encompassed Digital Emerging Technologies, Digital Policies and Strategy, and Digital Business Opportunities and Models.
This collaboration aims to promote the equality of digitalisation benefits in society, enhance accessibility to digital technology and services, and address the challenges and digital transformation.
The cooperation between Indonesia and Germany in transforming their policies to be more inclusive in digitalism holds significant potential. Through these cooperative efforts, Indonesia and Germany can effectively exchange best practices, experiences, and expertise to implement and develop inclusive digital policies.
One of the key objectives of this collaboration is to bridge the digital divide. By sharing their experiences and knowledge, they can identify successful strategies and approaches to narrow the digital divide and provide opportunities for individuals and communities to participate fully in the digital economy and society.
Enhancing digital skills and literacy is another significant aspect of their collaborative efforts. Recognising that digital skills are essential for individuals to fully engage in the digital era, Indonesia and Germany can exchange insights and programmes aimed at improving digital literacy and competencies. This includes initiatives such as digital training programmes, capacity-building activities, and educational reforms that equip individuals with the necessary skills to navigate and succeed in the digital world.
Promoting digital entrepreneurship is also a focal point of the cooperation between Indonesia and Germany. In driving innovation, economic development, and job creation, both countries acknowledge that the role of digital entrepreneurship is immensely crucial. By sharing experiences and policies that foster an entrepreneurial ecosystem, they can support aspiring digital entrepreneurs and create an environment conducive to the growth and sustainability of digital startups and businesses.
Furthermore, creating an enabling environment for digital innovation and participation is a shared objective. Indonesia and Germany can collaborate on policies and initiatives that encourage digital innovation, research and development, and the adoption of emerging technologies. It can enhance and foster innovation, attract investments in the digital sector, and harness technological advancements that contribute to global progress for both countries.
The cooperative efforts between Indonesia and Germany reflect their commitment to harnessing the potential of digital technologies for societal development, economic growth, and improving the well-being of their citizens. By fostering inclusive digitalism, both countries aim to create a digital future that leaves no one behind and promotes equitable opportunities and outcomes for all.
The delegation from the Republic of Indonesia was led by Director General of IKP, Usman Kansong, while the German delegation was led by Director General of Digital and Data Policy, Benjamin Brake.