inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. Minister of Communication and Digital Meutya Hafid emphasized that the speed of digital transformation in ASEAN cannot be measured solely by the adoption of advanced technology or the size of the digital economy, but rather by the extent to which the benefits of that technology are felt by the public.

"The narrative of digital speed is often trapped in the adoption rate of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the value of the digital economy. However, the biggest challenge for Indonesia and ASEAN is ensuring that this technology is equally accessible to hundreds of millions of people in the region," said Minister Meutya, Friday (1/23/2026).

She stated that inclusivity is an integral part of digital readiness. According to her, the speed of infrastructure will be meaningless if it is not accompanied by the speed of digital literacy, especially for the younger generation.

Meutya emphasized that the demographic bonus in the Asian region will only be a real advantage if it is accompanied by skills.

"The demographic bonus will only be beneficial if they are skilled. So, we must see how quickly we can educate our people," said Meutya.

On the other hand, Meutya announced that ASEAN is also finalizing the Digital Economic Framework Agreement (DEFA) to accelerate the development of the digital economy in the region.

This framework is designed not simply as a trade agreement, but as an "operating system" that strengthens connectivity between countries. One concrete example of this interoperability is the success of the QRIS digital payment system, which can now be used across countries, such as in Thailand and Malaysia.

Furthermore, ASEAN's neutral position is also seen as a strategic strength, opening broad access to technology and investment from around the world.

"ASEAN's neutrality ensures that this region's openness is always available to the entire world," the Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs emphasized.

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