BRIN calls for stronger national confidence in technology

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2 hours ago

Jakarta (ANTARA) – Head of the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) Arif Satria said the 31st National Technology Awakening Day (Hakteknas) should serve as a moment to strengthen Indonesia’s confidence in mastering technology.

Speaking at the Indonesia Innovator Award event here on Monday, Satria invited all elements of the nation to reflect on the history of Indonesia’s technological awakening, which was marked by the maiden flight of the N-250 Gatotkaca aircraft, designed by B.J. Habibie, in 1995.

“Of course, Hakteknas does not only commemorate Indonesia’s history of technological development, but also serves as a symbol of the nation’s growing confidence in technology. Hakteknas reminds Indonesia that technological progress must contribute to national development and public welfare,” he said.

Satria said BRIN is carrying the theme “Impactful Technology for a Sovereign, Just and Prosperous Indonesia” for this year’s commemoration.

He said the theme was chosen to emphasize the strategic role of technology in shaping the nation’s future, which can no longer rely solely on the availability of natural resources.

He also highlighted the importance of shifting researchers’ mindset from conducting research for its own sake to producing research that delivers tangible benefits to the wider public.

“We must accelerate the downstreaming of research and innovation. Research must not stop at publications or prototypes, but must be transformed into useful products, well-targeted policies, and real solutions to the nation’s problems,” he said.

In line with this vision, Satria recalled a key message from the president, who stressed that a country’s ability to master technology will greatly determine its position and standing in the eyes of the international community.

To help strengthen Indonesia’s standing, BRIN has established three strategies to accelerate national economic growth toward Golden Indonesia 2045: boosting MSME productivity through innovation, strengthening the competitiveness of national industries and Danantara through research, and facilitating the co-development of advanced global technologies.

Satria said the N-250 is not merely an aircraft, but also a symbol of big dreams, hard work, collaboration, and the courage to push boundaries.

“This is the spirit that we must continue to carry and keep alive at BRIN and research institutions across Indonesia, including universities,” Satria said.