inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. Vice Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs, Nezar Patria, emphasized that telecommunications networks have now become a basic public need and determine the continuity of public services.
Nezar says that this makes the development and management of telecommunications infrastructure must be viewed as a shared interest.
According to him, field experience demonstrates the vital role of telecommunications networks in people's lives, especially during disasters.
"One thing we just realized today is the importance of telecommunications networks. I was there and realized that telecommunications networks are as important as electricity and water," said Nezar on Thursday (1/15/2026).
He explained that without a functioning network, various basic community needs are disrupted.
"In times of disaster, we often realize that telecommunications infrastructure is more than just cables, towers, or technical equipment; it has become a kind of lifeblood," he said.
Nezar believes that the quality of telecommunications infrastructure is crucial for the direction of national digital transformation and the growth of the digital economy.
Therefore, he urged regional governments not to view telecommunications infrastructure as a commercial object to increase Regional Original Revenue (PAD), but rather as critical infrastructure that needs to be jointly maintained.
"The digital ecosystem depends on telecommunications infrastructure. Children need internet access for learning, MSMEs need access to digital platforms, and many strategic services utilize telecommunications networks," he concluded.
Nezar emphasized the importance of harmonizing central and regional policies for equitable distribution of national telecommunications infrastructure. This harmonization aims to ensure faster and more efficient development of telecommunications infrastructure to meet the public's need for connectivity.
"Regulatory harmonization is not merely an administrative matter, but concerns the fulfillment of the public's basic right to stay connected and receive adequate public services," he concluded.
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