Through the Ministry of National Development Planning (PPN)/Bappenas, Indonesia is deepening its collaboration with the Estonian Government to advance its digital transformation. During a strategic dialogue in Jakarta last month, representatives from both nations agreed to cooperate on technical and policy initiatives related to cross-agency data exchange and the development of digital public infrastructure (DPI), as outlined in a press statement from Bappenas’ Satu Data Indonesia (SDI).
According to Bappenas’ Deputy for Digital Economy and Transformation and head of the Indonesian delegation, the partnership with the Estonian Government is expected to accelerate the adoption of inclusive, secure, and efficient digital governance. The Indonesian delegation also included Minister PPN/Bappenas’ Special Staff and the Executive Director of Satu Data Indonesia.
The Estonian delegation was led by the country’s Minister of Foreign Affairs. It included the Estonian Ambassador to Indonesia, Singapore, and ASEAN, along with senior government officials and representatives from the technology sector. Among them was the CEO of Cybernetica AS, renowned for his role in developing X-Road, Estonia’s decentralized data exchange system.
The dialogue aims to support the implementation of Indonesia’s recently launched National Medium-Term Development Plan (RPJMN) 2025–2029, with a key objective of accelerating digital transformation to promote inclusive and sustainable national development.
The Estonian delegation affirmed its commitment to supporting Indonesia in developing a reliable and sustainable data exchange ecosystem. The Estonian Minister highlighted how the country’s data interoperability system has significantly boosted tax revenue by automating and integrating fiscal data across government agencies. He noted that a similar model would be highly relevant for Indonesia in enhancing public service delivery and improving the effectiveness of its fiscal policies.
According to a recent report by GovInsider, Estonia has successfully digitalized 100% of its government services. It is widely recognized for fostering public trust in digital governance, facilitating the broad adoption of digital services.
As the national Chief Data Officer, Satu Data Indonesia is spearheading the development of a data exchange framework to facilitate interoperability between central and regional government agencies. With support from the Estonian Government, recognized for its expertise in system interoperability, Indonesia is better positioned to advance its national data exchange platform. However, before the platform can be implemented, the country must first enhance data governance across agencies to ensure data is accurate, current, and accountable.
GovInsider previously reported that West Java, Indonesia, has been working on developing its version of X-Road by drawing insights from the successful implementation of X-Road in Estonia.
The discussions also featured technical sessions on data protection, integrating digital public services, and enhancing national digital infrastructure. Estonia expressed its willingness to assist Indonesia in creating a technical cooperation roadmap, offering support through knowledge exchange, human resource training, and platform development. Both nations agreed to continue their dialogue in future meetings, exploring cross-sector collaboration opportunities in technology and public policy.
(Source: GovInsider)
