Tech firms call for Indonesia to develop artificial intelligence workforce

Representatives from major cybersecurity firms have joined calls for Indonesian policymakers to prioritize development of homegrown AI expertise, citing growing demand for skilled professionals in the sector across Southeast Asia. The appeals underscore concerns that Indonesia risks falling behind regional competitors without targeted investment in education and training programs focused on artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies.

Industry executives argue that a robust domestic AI talent pool is essential for the country's digital economy and cybersecurity infrastructure. They contend that reliance on foreign expertise leaves Indonesia vulnerable to skills shortages and hampers innovation in critical technology sectors.

The push reflects broader regional trends as governments across Southeast Asia grapple with how to develop competitive advantages in emerging technologies. Cybersecurity professionals emphasize that building local AI capabilities would strengthen Indonesia's ability to address evolving cyber threats while creating high-value employment opportunities in the technology sector.

Government officials have not yet announced specific initiatives responding to industry demands, though the appeals highlight mounting pressure from the private sector to make AI workforce development a priority in national technology strategy.