TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Accelerating digital transformation is among the priority programs in the information and communication technology (ICT) field, as targeted by President Joko Widodo during his second term, stated Philip Gobang, communication and informatics minister’s special staff.

"Five areas elicit attention in managing digital transformation during the COVID-19 pandemic," Gobang remarked while addressing a webinar and workshop on "Encouraging the Creation and Innovation of Flobamora MSMEs" organized in Maumere, Sikka, East Nusa Tenggara, on Saturday.

The first area of focus is to expedite the expansion of access and increase in digital infrastructure, such as the provision of internet services in 12,500 villages and urban villages and at public service points.

The second aspect is urging relevant authorities to prepare a digital transformation roadmap in strategic sectors, including the government, public services, social assistance, education, health, trade, industry, and broadcasting.

The third area of focus is to speed up the integration of national data centers.

The fourth aspect concerns preparing human resources, especially digital talent. Indonesia needs a digital skilled workforce of some nine million over the next 15 years, or approximately 600 thousand per year, he remarked.

The fifth aspect is to prepare digital transformation planning, regulations-related matters, funding schemes, and digital transformation financing.

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a sharp increase in the use of internet and expedited digital transformation.

It has additionally pushed for the acceleration of equitable distribution of ICT across Indonesia.

Telecommunication infrastructure, as a national priority infrastructure, has contributed directly to national economic growth and equitable development for society, he stated.

"MSMEs currently rely heavily on online sales since physical activity is restricted to reduce the spread of COVID-19," he remarked.

The Ministry of Communication and Informatics supports MSMEs to properly utilize the existing digital space facilities, so that they can become a pillar of the national economy, according to Gobang.

Read: Jokowi: 9 Million 'Digital Talents' Needed in Digital Transformation

ANTARA