Indonesia's Deputy Minister Pushes Ethics-First Approach to AI Development
Indonesia's Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Stella Christie said the country's AI development must be grounded in ethical principles, not just technical capability.
Speaking at an AI governance event in Jakarta on April 22, Christie said human abstract thinking-the ability to grasp concepts from limited data-gives people an advantage over machines that AI cannot replicate. "Our ability to create abstractions and grasp concepts from minimal data is something we must not lose," she said.
The education system, Christie argued, should prioritize critical and conceptual thinking over pure technical training. She pointed to GPS technology as an example: it emerged from fundamental research into basic questions, not from an immediate practical need.
The Indonesian government is preparing a National Artificial Intelligence Roadmap for 2026 to 2029. The roadmap will guide ministries and agencies in developing AI policy and programs focused on solving Indonesia's specific development challenges.
The government plans to use AI to address complex problems and reduce development gaps across regions. The roadmap emphasizes ethical, safe, inclusive, and responsible AI use across sectors.
For IT and development professionals, this signals a shift toward AI for IT & Development that balances innovation with governance. Understanding how governments frame AI ethics will shape how organizations implement these technologies.
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