Regarding the Implementation of 5G in Indonesia, Palo Alto: Why Not Maximize 4G First?

JAKARTA - The latest report from global cybersecurity company Palo Alto Network reveals that as many as 88 percent of businesses in Indonesia claim to be working on a 5G strategy.

But, at the same time, they actually feel worried about securing 5G data and the application layer. Where according to Steven Scheurmann, Regional Vice President for ASEAN at Palo Alto Networks 5G has the possibility of transferring more and faster data.

"5G is difficult because 5G has the possibility of transferring more and faster data. So 5G shares information very, very quickly, and it is difficult to control," said Steven in Media Briefing: Report on the Condition of Cybersecurity in ASEAN 2023 by Palo Alto Networks in Jakarta on Monday, September 18.

Palo Alto Networks Indonesia Country Manager, Adi Rusli also added that before entering the 5G era, it would be better if the government and private sector maximized the 4G network currently available in Indonesia.

“5G is good. But the reality is that in Indonesia, in the basement, the signal is lost, or in certain places, where there are still many blank spots. 5G might help, but remember, 80 percent of the connectivity provided by both the government and the private sector has not reached remote areas. Connectivity is most available in Sumatra, West Java. "Even though we have more than 16,000 islands," said Adi.

Adi also stated that the implementation of 5G may or may not be appropriate. Because according to him, 4G or 3G services can actually be used first so that all areas have access, to avoid blank spots.

“Is 5G the right thing? Maybe yes and maybe not. But why don't we take advantage of 4G first, why don't we accelerate 4G infrastructure? "At least it can provide faster connectivity, especially for 80 percent of Indonesia's total area," he continued.

"From there we can move on to the next, how can everything be a catalyst for carrying out digital transformation and so on," concluded Adi.