Here, villages in Indonesia are making tangible strides toward achieving the SDGs – combining inclusive local planning, an integrated approach to development, and the transformative power of digital innovation to rewrite the narrative of socio-economic transformation. This serves as a reminder that the path to the SDGs is paved with both international aspirations and local ingenuity.

Across the diverse and captivating canvas of Indonesia's geography, a subtle yet powerful transformation is underway, where a “Digital Listening Tool” is being developed by the Village, Disadvantaged Region and Transmigration Ministry, with the support of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in collaboration with the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). It is an innovation that holds the promise of reshaping village development.

The tool encapsulates our commitment to harnessing the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to elevate the lives of those dwelling in Indonesia’s villages, reaching more than 75,000 villages and impacting the lives of 120 million residents. It unlocks the latent potential hidden within rural landscapes and brings together IFAD’s mission to transform local rural economies with UNDP's forward-thinking and innovative approach to unlock the promise of digitalization in democratizing the planning process for inclusive development.

For far too long, the dreams and aspirations of our rural communities, especially those belonging to women, youth, and people with disabilities, have not been integrated meaningfully into the development planning. The digital listening tool represents a seismic shift, offering a platform for every villager to have their voice heard.

Through a diverse range of input methods, including text, photos and voice, this tool ensures that no perspective remains marginalized, no vision goes unnoticed. It embodies inclusivity, empowering communities to play an active role in shaping their destinies. Yet, the mission of this tool extends far beyond merely listening; it employs AI to discern the various challenges and opportunities concealed within the collected data. It operates as a discerning advisor, assisting communities in gaining profound insights into their unique circumstances.

One of the tool's most remarkable features is its ability to craft digital profiles for specific demographic groups within villages. Acknowledging the distinctiveness of each community, it adapts to the aspirations and challenges faced by certain demographic. The outcome is solutions tailor-made to resonate with individual communities.

The result is solutions tailor-made to resonate with particular communities. Then, a chatbot seeks solutions from credible sources, addressing the identified challenges. It serves as a knowledgeable companion, ready to offer guidance and direction.

The data generated by the tool is not left dormant; instead, it becomes the cornerstone for future planning. Empowered by these insights, villagers chart their mid-term and annual plans, ensuring that their aspirations materialize into tangible actions.

For example, while making plans for cultivation, data-driven insights can spark farmers adopting sustainable agricultural practices, leading to increased crop yields and improved food security. In tourism, the tool could be used to identify and promote local attractions, boosting tourism and related industries.

These are just two examples of how digital technology serves as a catalyst for transformative development across an array of crucial sectors, underscoring its role as a critical enabler for achieving the SDGs.

The digital listening tool is not an isolated innovation; it is an integral component of the broader Social Innovation Platform, designed to strengthen Indonesia's local planning process, known as musrenbang. This collaboration envisions a future where local governments drive inclusive integrated local development, thereby transforming villages both socially and economically.

Significantly, the Village Ministry recognizes the tremendous potential of this tool. It has been hailed by advisors to the minister as a catalyst, an invaluable resource for villages across the country, and fully aligned with the ministry's vision for national village policies. This endorsement is not just a stamp of approval but a testament to the tool's potential to positively impact communities.

As the tool's development nears completion, the next stage entails real-world application. A joint team, comprising members from the Ministry of Village, UNDP, and IFAD, will begin field-testing in three eastern Indonesia provinces: Maluku, North Maluku, and Eastern Nusa Tenggara. The objective is to ensure that the tool goes beyond an exciting concept and is a viable and practical solution, ready to be rolled out in 100 villages early next year, with a vision of broader implementation in the years to come.

As we cast a spotlight on the boundless potential of AI, exemplified by the Digital Listening Tool, we glimpse a promising future for Indonesia's villages. This tool stands as a testament to the profound impact technology can have when thoughtfully harnessed, empowering communities and driving positive change.

Beyond its utility, it serves as a catalyst for transformation and a symbol of inclusivity. As we embark on this journey of innovation and empowerment, let us remember that the true measure of success extends beyond technological achievements, finding its essence in the meaningful improvements it brings to the lives of every Indonesian.

Aligned with Indonesia's resolute pursuit of the SDGs, this tool transcends its status as a mere technological marvel; it becomes a vital conduit to progress, ensuring that no villager and no village is left behind.

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Norimasa Shimomura is resident representative of UNDP Indonesia. Hani Abdelkader Elsadani Salem is country director IFAD Indonesia.