Semarang, C Java (ANTARA) - Indonesia must independently develop space technology, renewable energy, and Internet, chairman of the Indonesian Cyber Research Institute (CISSReC) Dr. Pratama Persadha has said.

"Indonesia could focus on these three important things, (renewable energy, internet, and space technology), in the digital era like now, since this nation was able to build the N-250 Gatotkaca aircraft in 1995," the cybersecurity expert told ANTARA over messaging platform WhatsApp here on Wednesday.

He then cited the example of Elon Reeve Musk, a business figure, inventor, and industrialist from the United States, who has developed Starlink, a low-cost Internet solution, which is currently available in the US and Canada.

"There are also renewable energy developments, such as Tesla and Solar City. Then regarding space technology, he has Space X which is the backbone of Starlink," Persadha said at the commemoration of the National Technology Awakening Day.

Indonesia has all that potential. For renewable energy, Indonesia can utilize solar cells as it gets sufficient solar energy throughout the year, he said.

Then, the nickel and battery industries that are being developed in this country can also be utilized to support the production of electric cars, he added.

Indonesia needs to boost its satellite launch program due to its increasing needs, both for defense and economic purposes, he added.

"Indonesia also has the Palapa Ring as an internet backbone. The program needs to be maximized to improve the digital economy in the country in the next few years," Persadha advised.

By maximizing the Palapa Ring program, the nation will be able to build several local applications according to the needs of the community, ranging from electronic mail (email), social media platforms, marketplaces, chat applications, and other digital solutions, he stated.

"It means that the state has provided a stimulus with various supporting infrastructures," he explained.

On Technology Awakening Day 2021, the expert emphasized the importance of personal data protection in the current digital era.

Persadha said he hoped that there will be several improvements in the protection of personal data while awaiting the completion of the personal data protection law.

"We hope cyber security issues will become a culture in everyday life, both in the bureaucracy and in the economy. Independence in the cyber system will pave the way for Indonesia to become a country that is respected by the global community," he remarked.

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Translator: D.Dj. Kliwantoro, Katriana
Editor: Sri Haryati
Copyright © ANTARA 2021