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ICT sector hoped to score double-digit growth in 2017
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A technician from telecommunications operator PT Indosat carries out maintenance work at one of the company’s base transceiver stations (BTS) in Jakarta. (JP/Ricky Yudhistira)
T
he government is optimistic over information and communication technology, predicting the sector will grow by 10.6 percent in 2017, making it the only sector expected to grow by double digits next year.
The National Development Planning Agency (Bappenas) set the bold target given the fact that broadband internet connection -- the 4G long-term evolution (LTE) and fiber optics-- now extend into more cities, supported by an increasing number of affordable handsets for end-users.
“The Palapa Ring project will be the focus in 2017, and 440 cities in 34 provinces will be connected by fiber optics. The government will also develop internet access in 800 industrial zones and special economic zones,” National Development Planning Minister Bambang Brodjonegoro said in Jakarta on Thursday.
Meanwhile, the transportation and warehousing sector, which benefits from ICT development in the wake of a boom in e-commerce, is predicted to grow 7.1 percent next year.
“Infrastructure such as roads, airports and seaports will support this sector. We will also direct investment to labor-intensive products to boost employment,” Bambang said.
In the proposed 2017 state budget, the government set economic growth at 5.3 percent, despite the persistently sluggish global economy and prolonged slump in commodity prices that have hit the country's exports. (ags)
