Indonesia's Kominfo teams with Indosat & Mastercard for academy

The Ministry of Communications and Informatics (Kominfo) of Indonesia has entered into a partnership with the Cybersecurity Center of Excellence, run jointly by Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison and Mastercard Indonesia, to establish an online academy. This academy aims to provide cybersecurity training to one million Indonesians as part of efforts to enhance the country's digital ecosystem.

The training will be administered via Kominfo's established Digital Talent Scholarship (DTS) platform. The academy will focus on imparting foundational knowledge and practical skills in cybersecurity. This initiative aims to better equip individuals and small businesses to protect themselves in an increasingly digital world. It will also bolster Indonesia's cybersecurity capabilities by nurturing both existing professionals and emerging talent, expanding the pool of cybersecurity specialists in the country.

The collaboration sees Indosat and Mastercard playing key roles. Indosat will leverage its digital talent development efforts, while Mastercard will bring its expertise in cybersecurity solutions and experience in delivering comprehensive cybersecurity training across the Asia Pacific and globally.

Participants will learn critical skills required for the digital economy, including secure management of devices, apps, and accounts, mastering software updates and security, protecting against phishing and malware, and securing business data with backups. This initiative aspires to enhance Indonesia's digital economy not only within Southeast Asia but globally as well.

Speaking on the partnership, the Minister of Communications and Informatics of the Republic of Indonesia, Budi Arie Setiadi, remarked, "This partnership marks a significant milestone in Indonesia's digital development. We are committed to building a secure and resilient digital ecosystem, and cybersecurity is a crucial part of this mission. By joining forces with Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison and Mastercard, we are laying a strong foundation to prepare Indonesia's digital talent for the challenges ahead."

Vikram Sinha, President Director and CEO of Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison, shared similar sentiments: "At Indosat, we believe that digital talent is the backbone of Indonesia's future. Being trusted by the Ministry of Communications and Informatics to support this groundbreaking initiative is a responsibility we proudly embrace. Together with Mastercard, we are committed to accelerating Indonesia's journey toward becoming a digitally advanced and secure nation, ready to compete on a global scale. With this landmark initiative, we believe Indosat is closer to fulfilling its larger purpose of empowering Indonesia."

Aileen Goh, Country Manager and President Director, Indonesia, Mastercard, highlighted the importance of addressing cybersecurity concerns amid the growing digital economy. "As the digital economy continues to grow, so does the frequency and extent of cyberattacks. Cyber Crimes are projected to cost the world about USD $13.8 trillion by 2028. Besides the increase in vulnerabilities, a recent global survey revealed that 72% of cyberattacks in Asia stem from the shortage of skilled specialists in the field. Capacity building and nurturing a pipeline of cybersecurity talent is therefore key to ensuring cyber resilience and a safe and secure digital economy."

"Mastercard is pleased to contribute to this important initiative alongside Indosat and the Ministry of Communications and Informatics. This collaboration will equip Indonesia's talents with the essential skills, knowledge and expertise necessary to prepare for future threats and bolster trust in the digital economy, thereby safeguarding Indonesia's digital future."

This collaboration is part of the Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence launched by Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison and Mastercard in April 2024. It underscores a shared commitment to empowering Indonesia's digital workforce and strengthening its standing in the global digital economy, setting a new benchmark for cybersecurity training in the country.