Jakarta (ANTARA) – Indonesia’s Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs Nezar Patria said the ministry has played a role in preparing young people in eastern Indonesia to adopt and master artificial intelligence (AI) technology.
Patria explained in a statement confirmed here on Friday the Makassar Human Resource Development Center (BBLSDM) plays a role in preparing digital talent in eastern Indonesia to adopt new technology, raise productivity, and grow businesses amid faster technological change.
“For young people, we should not be afraid of this technology. We master it, we make AI a companion, a tool, a partner to do the tasks or projects we are engaged in,” Patria said.
Patria assessed Makassar has a strategic position as a hub for eastern Indonesia. Therefore, the center needs to expand training to close the digital talent gap and equip young people with skills needed by the workforce, government, and businesses.
“We need to close the existing digital talent gap by training more young people in eastern Indonesia in digital skills and new technology, and encouraging them to adopt this technology in the sectors where they work,” he said.
Related news: Indonesia calls for ASEAN-Japan cooperation to combat cyber threats
Strengthening the digital skills is also directed at helping micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) adopt technology to raise productivity.
“We are also helping many MSMEs that are trying to adopt digital technology. The point is how this fairly experienced training center can grow stronger and have more impact on the existing digital ecosystem in eastern Indonesia,” he said.
He urged young people to understand the fast-moving development of AI, from generative AI to AI agents and agentic AI that can carry out various tasks autonomously. The change requires young people to keep learning and master the technology to use it appropriately.
Nevertheless, he emphasized that humans must remain at the center of control in using AI. The technology needs to be positioned as a tool to support work and projects, not as a party that controls people.
“Do not make AI our master, make it our worker. We remain at the center, so human in the center or human in the loop is what matters most. For that, master the technology,” Patria said.
Related news: Deputy minister urges universities to navigate AI preparing graduates
Related news: Indonesia calls for UN transformation to tackle global challenges
Translator: Farhan, Kenzu
Editor: Fransiska Ninditya
Copyright © ANTARA 2026
