Indonesia looks to Asian partners for semiconductor development
Planning Minister Rachmat Pambudy wants an industry extending beyond assembly, supported by skilled workers and greater research investment.
Indonesia is pursuing cooperation with Asian partners on a semiconductor ecosystem as part of efforts to improve competitiveness and add value to its natural resources, according to the Ministry of National Development Planning.
At the Danantara Technology & Innovation Investment Forum (DTIIF) 2026 in Jakarta, National Development Planning Minister Rachmat Pambudy identified India and Singapore as possible collaborators. He urged Asian nations to favour joint development over rivalry in strategic industries.
Pambudy said assembly alone should not define Indonesia’s semiconductor ambitions. A broader industry would need skilled personnel, stronger STEM education and increased funding for research and innovation centres.
He called for Indonesia to bring technological expertise and innovation together with its natural resources to become more competitive. Without those capabilities, he said, the country could remain reliant on exporting raw materials that generate limited added value.
Pambudy also wanted innovations to reach users across different sectors, taking their benefits beyond research institutions. Regional cooperation could contribute to sustainable economic growth and better public welfare, he said.
