Sweden-based communication technology and services provider Ericsson has expressed its willingness to offer ideas and participate in Indonesia's plan to develop smart cities.

The company says it will take part in the fourth New Cities Summit, expected to gather urban thinkers and policy makers, among others, which is scheduled to take place in Jakarta from Tuesday to Thursday.

"We will exchange thoughts with the policy makers, thinkers, and innovators on how the cities can take most benefits from the technology," said Ericsson head of industry and society Orvar Hurtig in an official statement on Monday.

The company further says it will match the integrated application of information technology and communication it offers with the unique needs of the cities, such as Jakarta, based on its current condition.

Ericsson says it will focus on its technology application development on transportation, public safety and utility sectors.

However, Hurtig said he was also aware of the challenges the company might face in working together with the Indonesian government and people.

Based on World Bank data, 2025 will see the peak of Indonesia'€™s urbanization, with 57 percent of the population living in cities, compared with 52 percent at present.

Makassar is the first Indonesian city to launch a smart city program, followed by Jakarta. (fsu/ebf)(++++)