Indonesia Joins Global AI Governance with WAICO Founding Membership

Indonesia has officially joined the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO) as a founding member, a move that underscores its commitment to shaping global AI governance. The signing ceremony took place in Shanghai, China, with Indonesian Minister of Economic Coordination Airlangga Hartarto representing the country. This initiative aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's directive to strengthen international cooperation in AI development and governance.

During a press conference, Airlangga highlighted the significance of Indonesia's participation, stating that by becoming a founder, the country gains first access to discussions on AI development. He emphasized that this membership allows Indonesia to influence global AI policies and ensure that advancements in AI are inclusive and beneficial for all nations, particularly developing countries.

WAICO is designed to facilitate international collaboration in the civilian domain of AI, focusing on creating a governance framework that is inclusive and non-discriminatory. Airlangga noted that the organization aims to bridge the digital divide, ensuring equitable access to AI technologies across different regions.

Indonesia's digital economy is projected to grow significantly, with estimates suggesting it could reach $366 billion by 2030, up from $130 billion this year. This growth is expected to be propelled by active regional and global cooperation, particularly through frameworks like the ASEAN Digital Economic Framework Agreement, which aims to double the region's digital economy from $1 trillion to $2 trillion.

“By becoming a founder, we gain first access to discussions on AI development.”Airlangga Hartarto, Minister of Economic Coordination

In addition to Indonesia, around 30 countries signed the founding agreement, including several ASEAN nations such as Malaysia, Cambodia, and Myanmar. Airlangga remarked that this collective effort reflects a shared vision among nations to manage AI in a manner that is safe, trustworthy, and ethical.

Indonesian coverage emphasized the country’s intention to maintain a neutral stance in the geopolitical landscape surrounding AI, with Airlangga asserting that Indonesia does not intend to align exclusively with either the United States or China. Instead, he described a multi-source approach to AI development, indicating that Indonesia will collaborate with various international partners while prioritizing national interests. This perspective was echoed by the Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital, Angga Raka Prabowo, who stated that Indonesia's participation in WAICO aims to ensure the country plays an active role in global AI governance, focusing on ethical and beneficial applications of AI for society.

In contrast, Cambodian media framed the WAICO founding membership as a significant step towards advancing the country's transition to an innovation-driven economy. Chea Vandeth, Cambodia's Minister of Posts and Telecommunications, endorsed the pact on behalf of Cambodia, emphasizing that the agreement would inject fresh momentum into the development of emerging technologies like AI in the Kingdom. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet's participation in the signing ceremony was highlighted as a demonstration of the country's commitment to global cooperation in AI governance.

Cambodian coverage stressed the importance of adhering to a people-centered approach in AI development, which aligns with the principles of the UN Charter. This framing suggests a focus on ensuring that AI is beneficial and equitable for all, reflecting a broader commitment to international collaboration. Furthermore, it was noted that Cambodia's involvement builds on existing strong ties with China, which may influence its approach to AI governance.

Airlangga concluded by reaffirming Indonesia's commitment to actively participating in the global dialogue on AI governance, stating that the signing is a crucial milestone for Indonesia. Through WAICO, Indonesia is committed to bridging the global technology capability gap and ensuring that AI development is safe and beneficial for all.