JAKARTA | INDATANEWS.COM ~ Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Kementerian Komunikasi dan Digital Republik Indonesia, Komdigi), in collaboration with Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison (IOH), officially launched the AI platform Sahabat-AI. The debut marks a strategic milestone in Indonesia's journey toward a sovereign, inclusive, and locally grounded artificial intelligence ecosystem.
The application-based platform targets a wide audience—from students, creatives, and entrepreneurs to public institutions. Sahabat-AI is designed not only as a technological innovation but as a digital companion that respects Indonesia's languages, culture, and everyday realities. The platform is now available on Android and iOS devices, lowering barriers to AI usage and expanding its practical applications in daily life.
SAHABAT-AI LAUNCH: Indonesia's Minister of Communication and Information Technology, Meutya Hafid, along with Indosat executives, officially launched Sahabat-AI, now available on both Android and iOS platforms. (PHOTO: Indosat/IOH)
Multi-Model and Multi-Modal Capabilities in One Platform
Sahabat-AI combines multi-model and multi-modal functionalities within a single integrated interface. Users can seamlessly switch between text, image, and video tools, perform intelligent research, get programming support, or carry out complex analyses.
This integrated approach unlocks new opportunities for education, the creative economy, and professional applications. By contextualizing AI technology, the platform adapts more closely to the needs of the Indonesian population. Under the motto "Si Paling Indonesia", Sahabat-AI fuses local language diversity, cultural values, and national context with cutting-edge international technology, aiming to create AI that authentically reflects Indonesia's societal realities.
SAHABAT-AI USAGE SIMULATION: Indonesia's Minister of Communication and Information Technology, Meutya Hafid, observes a simulation of Sahabat-AI being used by an Indosat operator. (PHOTO: Indosat/IOH)
Strengthening National AI Independence
Indonesia's Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs, Meutya Hafid, highlighted that Sahabat-AI reflects the country's strategic direction in developing independent national AI capabilities.
"Technology must be accessible to everyone, regardless of language or cultural background," Hafid said. "Indonesia needs AI that is built on its own linguistic, cultural, and societal values."
The platform demonstrates Indonesia's capacity to develop relevant and socially beneficial technologies independently. Hafid encouraged all societal groups to actively use Sahabat-AI and contribute to the nation's AI development.
Multi-Layered Safeguards for a Secure Digital Space
Sahabat-AI incorporates multi-layered "guardrails" aligned with Indonesia's social norms, cultural values, and ethical standards. The platform supports government efforts to combat harmful content and promote a safe digital environment.
Vikram Sinha, President and CEO of Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison, stated that the launch of Sahabat-AI aligns with the company's mission to advance Indonesia's digital transformation. "Sahabat-AI was created not for a company but for Indonesia," Sinha said.
As an open and widely accessible platform, it lays an innovation foundation for individuals, start-ups, businesses, and public institutions across the country. (IDNC)
REPORTER: Sri Endang Lasmiaty