In a concerted effort to bridge the digital divide and ensure widespread internet access, the Indonesian government has set its sights on digitalization. As of early 2024, the country boasts a staggering 221.5 million internet users, precisely 221,563,479 individuals. Notably, the Generation Z (Gen Z) demographic, aged between 12 and 27 years (born 1997-2012), emerges as the most prolific internet users among all age groups.
This revelation stems from the comprehensive ‘Indonesia Internet Penetration Survey 2024,’ recently published by the Association of Indonesian Internet Service Providers (APJII).
The report, compiled through face-to-face interviews with 8,720 respondents conducted from December 18, 2023, to January 19, 2024, offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of internet usage in the country.
According to APJII’s findings, Indonesia’s estimated population in 2023 stands at approximately 278.69 million. The internet penetration rate, calculated by comparing the number of internet-connected individuals to the total population, has surged to 79.5 percent at the dawn of 2024.
This growth trajectory in internet penetration has been consistent over the past three years. Starting in 2022 with a penetration rate of 77.01 percent, Indonesia witnessed a steady increase to 78.19 percent in 2023, culminating in an impressive 79.5 percent in 2024.
Delving deeper into the data, the APJII report categorizes internet penetration rates based on generational groups, spanning Pre-Boomers (born <1945/aged 79 years++), Baby Boomers (1946-1964/aged 60-78 years), Gen X (1965-1980/aged 44-59 years), Millennials (1981-1996/aged 28-43 years), Gen Z (1997-2012/aged 12-27 years), and Post-Gen Z (>2013/aged less than 12 years).
Remarkably, Gen Z emerges as the torchbearer with the highest contribution rate at the outset of 2024, standing at an impressive 34.4 percent. Following closely are Millennials, contributing 30.62 percent, and Gen X with a notable 18.98 percent.
Analyzing penetration rates reveals that Millennials lead the way with the highest penetration rate, reaching an impressive 93.17 percent. Gen Z follows closely at 87.02 percent, and Gen X maintains a robust 83.69 percent.
The report also highlights a nuanced gender difference, with male internet users exhibiting a higher penetration rate at 87.6 percent compared to their female counterparts at 85.5 percent.
Beyond demographics, the survey extends its gaze to regional disparities, uncovering that its penetration in urban areas, including cities and their peripheries, stands at an impressive 82.2 percent. In contrast, rural areas, characterized by villages, display a slightly lower yet commendable penetration rate of 74 percent.
As Indonesia strides confidently into the digital era, these findings underscore the nation’s commitment to fostering widespread internet connectivity, empowering diverse demographics and bridging the digital gap. The government’s focus on digitalization continues to shape a more connected and technologically inclusive future for all Indonesians.
