As part of its commitment to accelerating inclusive digital transformation across Indonesia, PT Telkom Indonesia (Persero) Tbk (Telkom) continues to expand access to digital literacy, reaching even the frontier, outermost, and underdeveloped (3T) regions. Through its Social and Environmental Responsibility (TJSL) program, Telkom launched the "Rural Youth AI Facilitator: Accelerating Inclusive Digital Transformation in the 3T Regions of Southwest Papua" initiative. This program empowers young people to act as agents of digital transformation, supporting capacity building for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology.
The program was initiated in response to the limited digital literacy among MSME operators in Southwest Papua. Data from the Sorong City Government (2023) indicates that there are over 6,823 MSMEs driving the local economy. Meanwhile, data from the Sorong Regency Industry, Trade, Cooperative, and SME Agency (2025) reveals that out of approximately 6,000 MSME operators, only around 150 have received training in digitalization. This situation highlights the need for a more inclusive and sustainable approach to expanding the adoption of digital technology, particularly in 3T regions.
To address this challenge, Telkom recently conducted Artificial Intelligence (AI) training for 70 university students from UNIMUDA Sorong and the University of Papua (UNIPA) Waisai. Utilizing a "Train the Trainer" approach, the participants are being prepared to serve as digital agents who will assist MSME operators in adopting AI technology to enhance business productivity, efficiency, and competitiveness.
Telkom’s Senior General Manager of Social Responsibility, Hery Susanto, stated that community empowerment through technology is a crucial part of Telkom's efforts to build an inclusive and sustainable digital ecosystem.
"Empowering young talent is part of Telkom's commitment to extending the benefits of digital transformation to 3T regions [underdeveloped, frontier, and outermost areas]. Through the Rural Youth AI Facilitator program, we hope that more MSMEs will be able to leverage AI technology to boost productivity and create added value for their businesses," said Hery.
Following the training, the students will provide one-on-one guidance to MSME owners, covering areas such as digital asset development, marketing strategies, and the use of AI for operations and business management. By engaging local young talent who understand the characteristics of their respective regions, the assistance is expected to be more effective, contextual, and easily implemented by the community.
Moving forward, digital agents will collaborate with various strategic groups in Southwest Papua—including "Mama-Mama Papua" business groups on product development, marketing, and business management; village youth communities to strengthen digital promotion; and Village-Owned Enterprise (BUMDes) managers to improve institutional governance and expand Business-to-Business (B2B) partnership opportunities.
The Rural Youth AI Facilitator program is part of Telkom’s commitment to strengthening a modern, inclusive, and competitive MSME ecosystem through the implementation of its Social and Environmental Responsibility (TJSL) initiatives. Beyond enhancing the capabilities of business owners, the program creates opportunities for the younger generation to play an active role in driving digital transformation within their local communities, while simultaneously supporting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—specifically Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and Goal 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure).
By fostering collaboration among technology, young talent, and the community, Telkom will continue to expand digital empowerment initiatives that generate sustainable social impact. Aligned with the company's commitment to accelerating Indonesia's digital transformation, Telkom is optimistic that the inclusive use of technology can boost MSME competitiveness, drive regional economic growth, and create more equitable opportunities for prosperity among communities across Indonesia.
Post a Comment