Asech Director, Erike Malonda, held a strategic meeting with I Putu Sudiarta, Founder of Baliola, to discuss concrete steps for smart city development in Indonesia. The lively meeting focused on two main issues: the development of a smart city area in Jatinangor and the urgency of improving cybersecurity in both the public and private sectors.
Jatinangor: A Real-Life Example of Smart City Implementation
During the discussion, the Jatinangor area was highlighted as one of the smart city projects that has been running smoothly. This project is considered successful in demonstrating how the integration of technology, city governance, and public participation can create a more efficient and sustainable urban ecosystem. This success makes Jatinangor an interesting case study that can serve as a reference for the development of other areas in Indonesia.
“Jatinangor is an example of how a smart city is not only about digital infrastructure, but also about cross-sector collaboration and the use of data for better public services,” said Erike Malonda.
Cybersecurity: A Pressing Challenge
However, despite the development of smart city technology, the two leaders highlighted one crucial issue that has yet to receive serious attention: cybersecurity. The meeting revealed that many large companies and government institutions still lack adequate cybersecurity systems.
“In the midst of digital transformation, we are faced with the reality that data security systems in many institutions are still highly vulnerable. This is a serious weakness that must be addressed immediately,” explained I Putu Sudiarta.”In the midst of digital transformation, we are faced with the reality that data security systems in many institutions are still highly vulnerable. This is a serious weakness that must be addressed immediately,” explained I Putu Sudiarta.
Increasingly complex cyber threats demand increased human resource capacity, infrastructure, and adaptive policies. Therefore, Asech and Baliola agreed that cybersecurity must be an integral part of smart city design, not just an add-on.
Collaborative Steps Forward
This meeting marks the first step in building a long-term partnership between Asech and Baliola to drive the transformation of Indonesian cities into safe, inclusive, and sustainable smart cities. This collaboration is expected to produce strategic recommendations and joint pilot projects that combine technological excellence, smart governance, and a participatory approach.
Author : Angelika Lantu
