BRIN Aims to Develop AI in Health Sector to Combat COVID-19 Pandemic

Indonesia is making strides in bringing technology to all aspects of life. In its latest effort, the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is pushing for the development of artificial intelligence (AI) in the healthcare sector, particularly for the handling of the Covid-19 pandemic.

BRIN’s Deputy for Development Policy and Focal Point Person for APEC PPSTI Indonesia, Mego Pinandito, stated that the development will be carried out by adopting the basic principles of AI applications, namely to diagnose Covid-19, monitor the spread of the virus at the micro-level or from patients to the environment, and at the macro-level or the potential for mass transmission.

“Communication, starting from the recording of the number of antigen and PCR tests, is crucial to prevent the spread of Covid-19. The implementation of information technology has been proven to be very helpful in the handling and mitigation of Covid-19,” said Pinandito in a statement on Tuesday, May 9, 2023.

In addition, BRIN has also applied to host the APEC Workshop Application of Artificial Intelligence to Accelerate the Mitigation of Covid-19 Pandemic, which will be held from May 9-11, 2023. This is evidence of BRIN’s commitment to promoting AI development in Indonesia, especially in the healthcare sector.

Furthermore, Mego believes that this virtual meeting can expand international networks in the development of AI, both in the healthcare sector and beyond.

During the event, current research and innovation achievements will be discussed, including successful science and technology achievements and their implementation. Additionally, research discussions regarding the future will also be held.

“This opportunity is certainly done with full support from APEC. Through the workshop held by BRIN, we can invite information technology experts, especially those who specialize in AI in healthcare, for the handling and mitigation of Covid-19, not only from Indonesia but also from various APEC member countries,” explained Pinandito.

The three-day event will be attended by participants from 21 member countries of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC). With this effort, Indonesia is showing its dedication to harnessing the potential of AI technology for the benefit of healthcare and society as a whole.