Indonesian Citizens Will Soon Have Digital Population Identity (IKD), Will 𝑲𝑻𝑷 Cards Be Abandoned?

The Ministry of Home Affairs (Kemendagri) is gearing up for the introduction of the Digital Population Identity, abbreviated as IKD. This digital identity, IKD, will encompass personal data serving as the population’s identity.

IKD, a Digital ID resembling the digital version of the electronic ID card (KTP-el), will hold electronic information used to represent Population Documents and corresponding data within digital applications on devices like smartphones, showcasing an individual’s Personal Data as their identity.

Crucially, Kemendagri stresses that IKD will not replace the current electronic ID card or KTP-el. Instead, both will coexist, complementing each other.

“The implementation of IKD does not replace the KTP-el. Both serve to complement each other and remain valid. This considers various scenarios, including individuals without smartphones or those not accustomed to using them,” clarified Teguh Setyabudi, the Director-General of Population and Civil Registration (Dukcapil), as reported by Detikcom on Thursday (December 13, 2023).

It’s important to note that the activation of IKD is not currently obligatory. However, the government strongly encourages individuals to activate their IKD for potential benefits.

“While activation is not mandatory at this time, we strongly encourage IKD activation,” he affirmed.

Teguh emphasizes that the introduction of IKD aligns with the broader digital transformation initiative. IKD is designed to support the government’s efforts in implementing the Electronic-Based Government System (SPBE).

According to Regulation No. 72 of 2022 from the Minister of Home Affairs, the objectives of IKD include adapting to information and communication technology advancements related to population digitalization, enhancing the utilization of digitalization for the populace, facilitating swift digital transactions in both public and private sectors, and securing IKD ownership through an authentication system to prevent forgery and data breaches.

IKD serves multiple functions, one of which is to act as evidence of identity. This involves the verification of identity data to confirm ownership of IKD. Additionally, IKD is used for identity authentication, employing various verification methods such as biometrics, identity data, verification codes, and quick response (QR) codes. This serves to confirm the IKD owner’s identity and authorize access to their IKD data by relevant parties.