BRIN Pushes Acceleration of National Space Technology Independence

Head of the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) Arif Satria (Photo: BRIN doc)

JAKARTA - The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) revealed Indonesia's ambition to accelerate national space technology independence, as a strategic foundation for national technological sovereignty.

Head of BRIN Arif Satria said that the development of national astronautics faces increasingly complex challenges as global technological advances accelerate and Indonesia's needs for satellite systems, rockets, and supporting infrastructure increase.

Therefore, BRIN emphasizes the importance of a measured but progressive step so that Indonesia does not lag behind in the global space competition.

However, Arif emphasized that accelerating space development is not enough to rely on physical infrastructure, therefore, collaboration across ministries and agencies is very necessary.

According to him, clarity of governance, division of roles, and coordination between units are crucial factors for strategic programs to run effectively and efficiently.

"We must not be trapped in overlapping authorities. What is needed is an integrated system," Arif said in an official broadcast quoted on Sunday, December 4.

One of the main focuses in Indonesia's space independence is the optimization of the Biak Spaceport, which is designed as a national launch center, as well as a future international cooperation node.

However, he added, the effectiveness of the function is much more important than just the form of the organization.

"The main thing is how the function of extraterrestrialism runs in an integrated and sustainable way," he said.

Efforts to develop this spaceport have been included in the National Space Master Plan (Renduk) 2017-2040, which contains Indonesia's long-term vision in the space sector.

However, Arif assessed that the target for self-sufficiency in space launches did not have to wait until 2040.

"If it can be before 2040, why not faster? The key is focus, time allocation, and productivity," he said.

Arif stated that the institutional discussion is still ongoing with the PAN-RB Ministry and related ministries/institutions.

He also encouraged researchers to increase the intensity and quality of research, including taking advantage of overseas research grant opportunities, which are currently becoming more open.