The Indonesian Minister of Communication and Information Technology, Rudiantara, opened the meeting by planting a tree.
"This is easier than planting fiber optic cables," Rudiantara said here on Wednesday.
TELSOM-TELMIN is an ASEAN regional-level meeting attended by telecommunications ministers from ASEAN member countries, several representatives from fellow countries, and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
The meeting, which takes place from Dec 3 to 6, 2018, discusses a theme of the future of the digital ecosystem for ASEAN.
The delegates discuss the dynamics of the digital technology in ASEAN in the next 5 to 10 years.
In addition, they will also seek inputs from major global technology companies regarding technological developments and their implications on the world, including impacts on ASEAN.
"We are looking forward to getting their suggestions for ASEAN to respond to the dynamics of technology," Rudiantara remarked.
He noted that one of the changes recently is non-cash payment in daily activities.
In Indonesia, non-cash payment using digital cards or wallets are available everywhere, including for public transportation payments, such as trains and buses, and shopping.
"Later, when conducting cross-national transactions, we must understand how to, for example, maintain personal data," Rudiantara noted.
He added that countries in Europe do not allow their citizens to make e-commerce transactions with those from other countries that do not have laws on personal data protection.
According to the minister, the Indonesian government will discuss the law on protection of personal data in 2019.
"The discussion about this law is included in the national legislative program," Rudiantara pointed out.
Last year, the TELSOM-TELMIN meeting was held in Cambodia.
Reporting by Natisha Andarningtyas, Libertina WA
Editing by Yoseph
(KR-LWA/INE/H-YH)
)
Reporter: Antara
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
Copyright © ANTARA 2018
