Two scenarios for 5G deployment in Indonesia

Area of Science:

• Telecommunications Engineering
• Technology Policy
• Innovation Studies

Background:

• Indonesia's 5G deployment faces significant hurdles due to the unreadiness of key stakeholders.
• Critical areas requiring attention include telecommunication infrastructure (spectrum, transport), regulatory frameworks, innovation ecosystems, and societal impacts.

Discussion:

• Despite challenges, crucial drivers such as end-customer demand, mobile network operator (MNO) revenue opportunities, and the pursuit of industry automation and national competitiveness are identified.
• These drivers are pivotal for advancing 5G adoption within the Indonesian context.

Key Insights:

• The study highlights a dichotomy between the factors restraining and driving 5G deployment in Indonesia.
• A proactive approach is needed to address infrastructure deficits and regulatory uncertainties.

Outlook:

• Two distinct scenarios, 'The Optimistic Champion' and 'The Wait and Respond,' are developed using scenario-based planning to explore future 5G deployment trajectories.
• These scenarios provide a framework for strategic decision-making to navigate the complexities of 5G implementation in Indonesia.