Can't Be Delayed, IBM Says Digital Sovereignty Is the Key to Economic Resilience

JAKARTA - Digital sovereignty is considered an urgent need for Indonesia in line with the acceleration of digital economic transformation and the increasing complexity of global risks.

IBM states that digital sovereignty is no longer just about where data is stored, but also includes the ability to prove who has access, where systems are run, and whether our rules are being adhered to in real time.

IBM also said the Asia Pacific region is now entering a crucial phase, where the convergence of technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), hybrid cloud, and quantum computing is beginning to significantly change business models and the map of industry competition.

But at the same time, global geopolitical dynamics are pushing many countries to tighten rules related to data localization and technological sovereignty.

In Indonesia itself, this urgency is increasingly relevant, given its position as the largest digital economy in Southeast Asia, with a contribution of around 40% to the total market of the region.

The large scale of the digital economy, supported by hundreds of millions of internet users, makes data management and technology a national strategic issue.

However, many organizations are still judged to not have adequate platforms to manage applications and data under the digital sovereignty framework, including integrating AI capabilities and meeting the growing compliance requirements.

Therefore, digital sovereignty can no longer be delayed and is crucial. Companies need to have control over their data, infrastructure, and innovation, or risk losing strategic autonomy.

Digital sovereignty is also believed to be able to strengthen control over data and infrastructure, ensure regulatory compliance, encourage sustainable growth, increase AI and cloud-based competitiveness, and provide operational flexibility and resilience against global risks.

"Indonesia is at a critical moment in its digital journey. By leading in digital sovereignty and strengthening cross-border partnerships, we can build a trusted digital foundation to drive innovation, strengthen resilience, and open up new opportunities," said Catherine Lian, General Manager and Technology Leader, IBM ASEAN.