Starlink has the ability to deliver internet directly to user terminals without disruption unlike through conventional internet service providers (ISPs).
he entry of the Starlink satellite internet service is expected to render existing rules regarding digital services and censorship “outdated”, with government officials concerned about their ability to regulate online content with the entry of billionaire Elon Musk’s technology.
Starlink, a wholly owned subsidiary of Musk’s aerospace firm SpaceX, can deliver internet directly to user terminals without disruption unlike through conventional internet service providers (ISPs).
“This is causing headaches for several government agencies because they can no longer request [content] blockages,” said Wahjudi Djafar, executive director of rights group the Institute for Policy Research and Advocacy for Society (ELSAM) during a media briefing held by the Indonesia Service Dialogue (ISD) on Tuesday.
“Now, regions like Papua could freely access anything with Starlink’s technology.”
Musk has frequently sparred with governments around the world about what is acceptable to post online, Al Jazeera reported on April 26.
Since the beginning of this year, Musk has faced legal battles against two countries, namely Brazil and Australia over compliance on his social media platform X, as reported by Reuters.
Despite the new problems that the service may present, Starlink’s entry provides an opportunity to revamp the country’s digital governance that remains sectoral-based and that is inhibited by overlaps between sectors and policies, Wahyudi said.
Share your experiences, suggestions, and any issues you've encountered on The Jakarta Post. We're here to listen.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts. We appreciate your feedback.
Quickly share this news with your network—keep everyone informed with just a single click!
Share the best of The Jakarta Post with friends, family, or colleagues. As a subscriber, you can gift 3 to 5 articles each month that anyone can read—no subscription needed!
Get the best experience—faster access, exclusive features, and a seamless way to stay updated.