In a groundbreaking move, Starlink, the satellite internet venture by Elon Musk, is gearing up for its first trial run in Indonesia. However, the chosen location might surprised. Instead of the bustling metropolis of Jakarta, the trial will take place in the Nusantara Capital Region (IKN) in May 2024.
The decision behind this strategic move was unveiled by the Ministry of Communication and Informatics (Kemenkominfo), shedding light on the reasoning for opting for IKN over Jakarta.
According to Minister of Communication and Informatics, Budi Arie Setiadi, the rationale behind conducting the Starlink trial in IKN lies in the endeavor to extend connectivity to areas still grappling with inadequate telecommunication infrastructure.
“Starlink operates through satellite technology. It wouldn’t make sense to trial it in Jakarta. We’re aiming at areas with minimal telecommunication infrastructure, like IKN. Only then can we ascertain its viability,” explained Minister Budi during a recent encounter at the Ministry of Communication and Informatics.
Despite the forthcoming trial, Minister Budi acknowledged that, currently, there is no definitive investment value associated with the Starlink internet network. “Let’s wait and see,” he added succinctly.
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Recent data from Ookla’s Speedtest Global Index for February 2024 reveals that Indonesia lags significantly behind its Southeast Asian counterparts in terms of internet speeds, both in mobile and fixed broadband categories.
Mobile internet download speeds in Indonesia stand at a mere 25.39 Mbps, with upload speeds at 12.81 Mbps. On the other hand, fixed broadband download speeds reach 29.62 Mbps, with upload speeds at 18.25 Mbps as of February 2024.
Highlighting Telkomsel as the leading mobile operator in Indonesia, Speedtest Intelligence indicates a median download speed of 31.14 Mbps in the fourth quarter of 2023.
Contrasting these figures with Ookla’s data on Starlink’s internet speeds in various countries, it’s evident that Starlink in Switzerland boasted one of the fastest median download speeds during the second quarter of 2023, at 122.47 Mbps.
Furthermore, compliance with regulations is paramount for Elon Musk’s low-orbit satellite venture.
“The trial is scheduled for May. We’re awaiting further details. Although the exact date remains unconfirmed, it’s expected to be around May,” emphasized Minister Budi during the encounter.
He stressed the imperative for Starlink to adhere to Indonesian regulations while providing services in the country, ensuring a level playing field alongside other providers.
It’s worth noting that compliance with various regulations, including Telecommunications Law No. 36/1999, Public Services Law No. 25/2009, and Job Creation Law No. 6/2023, is mandatory for telecommunications players operating in Indonesia.
Moreover, Minister Budi hinted at the possibility of Starlink’s availability coinciding with Indonesia’s 79th Independence Day celebration, contingent upon the smooth progression of the trial.
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