ASIATODAY.ID, SHANGHAI — Indonesia is turning its artificial intelligence ambitions into concrete industrial partnerships, seeking advanced technologies from China in robotics, semiconductors, and digital infrastructure to accelerate the country’s next phase of economic transformation.
During the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) 2026 in Shanghai, Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto led an Indonesian delegation in exploring collaboration opportunities with some of China’s leading technology companies, including Unitree Robotics, Deep Robotics, and CICT-FiberHome.
The engagement marks a strategic shift in Indonesia’s AI strategy—from policy commitments toward practical cooperation aimed at securing technology transfer, strengthening domestic capabilities, and developing high-value industries.
Indonesia’s approach reflects its broader ambition to move beyond being a large digital market and become an active participant in the global artificial intelligence ecosystem.
“Indonesia does not want to be merely a spectator or consumer in the global AI race. We aim to become an active architect of the digital future,” Airlangga said during the High-Level Meeting of WAICO Founding States.
From AI Cooperation to Industrial Transformation
At WAIC 2026, Indonesia explored how advanced robotics and AI technologies could be integrated into strategic sectors, including mining, energy, manufacturing, logistics, and critical infrastructure.
During a visit to Unitree Robotics, the delegation observed demonstrations of humanoid and quadruped robots designed for industrial inspection, power grid maintenance, logistics, and AI research.
Unitree has become one of China’s most prominent robotics companies, with more than 50,000 quadruped robots deployed globally. Indonesian officials see opportunities to adapt similar technologies for industrial environments, particularly in sectors where automation can improve productivity, efficiency, and workplace safety.
Beyond technology adoption, Jakarta is also seeking opportunities for local assembly, supply chain development, and deeper industrial cooperation to support Indonesia’s downstream manufacturing strategy.
The delegation also visited Deep Robotics, a company specializing in AI-powered robotic systems for industrial inspection, emergency response, and high-risk operations.
For Indonesia, these technologies could support operations in remote mining areas, energy facilities, and disaster-prone regions, while creating opportunities for collaboration between Chinese technology providers and Indonesian industries.
Meanwhile, discussions with CICT-FiberHome focused on expanding cooperation in telecommunications infrastructure, fiber-optic networks, cloud computing, and data center development.
As AI adoption accelerates, Indonesia views digital infrastructure as a critical foundation for future economic competitiveness.
Building Indonesia’s AI Ecosystem
Indonesia’s engagement with China’s technology sector is part of a wider national strategy to strengthen technological independence and position the country within the global digital value chain.
Under President Prabowo Subianto’s administration, Indonesia has accelerated efforts in advanced technology development, including strategic cooperation with Arm Holdings in semiconductor and AI capabilities.
The government is also developing a National AI Roadmap covering infrastructure investment, talent development, research and innovation, and responsible AI governance.
With approximately 235 million internet users and around 81% internet penetration, Indonesia represents one of the world’s largest digital markets. The country currently operates 182 data centers, with major concentrations in Jakarta and Batam, creating strong potential for AI computing and cloud infrastructure growth.
China Partnership, Indonesia’s AI Gateway
Indonesia’s participation at WAIC 2026 demonstrates that its AI strategy is not only about adopting new technologies but also about building industrial capacity through international partnerships.
By strengthening cooperation with China’s technology ecosystem, Indonesia aims to accelerate innovation, attract investment, and develop the capabilities needed to compete in the next era of artificial intelligence.
As global competition for AI leadership intensifies, Indonesia is positioning technology partnerships and knowledge transfer as key drivers of its transformation from a major digital market into an emerging AI-powered industrial economy. (AT Network)
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