SpaceX's satellite network, Starlink, is set to launch its high-speed internet services in Indonesia within the next two weeks. This announcement was made by Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment, Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, during the ‘Jakarta Future Forum: Blue Horizons, Green Growth.’
Pandjaitan mentioned that this launch will help Indonesia expand access to high-speed internet to a larger population. He also shared that the Indonesian government and Starlink have already signed an agreement, including the necessary license for operating the satellite-based internet system in the country.
During the event, Pandjaitan revealed that he recently spoke with Elon Musk, the owner of SpaceX, and hinted at a future announcement related to their collaboration. He suggested that the announcement might take place in Bali soon.
Minister of Communication and Informatics, Budi Arie Setiadi, reassured stakeholders that Starlink's entry into Indonesia will not negatively impact local internet providers. He explained that Starlink's main focus will be on providing internet access to areas that are currently underserved due to geographical challenges.
Setiadi also confirmed that Starlink has obtained the required license to operate as a telecommunications provider in Indonesia. Setiadi further disclosed that Starlink plans to test its network in Indonesia's new capital city, Nusantara, in mid-May, with full operations expected to begin later this year.
He emphasized the goal of improving internet speed while ensuring equitable distribution of internet access, especially in remote regions that still face connectivity challenges.
