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Outer space should be a pillar of Prabowo’s administration
Through advanced satellite imagery, farmers can gain insights into crop health, soil conditions, and deforestation trends.
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Workers strive on May 19, 2024, to complete the development of antenna of the Pasifik Satelit Nusantara (PSN) ground station communication satellite in Aceh Besar, Aceh. The Communications and Information Ministry has continued to strengthen telecommunication connectivity networks to give better digital access to disadvantaged and outermost regions across
Indonesia. (Antara/Irwansyah Putra)
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s the world moves toward an era of technological advancement, the importance of outer space as a strategic domain has become increasingly clear. For Indonesia, the potential benefits of prioritizing space as national interest under the leadership of President Prabowo Subianto is undeniable. The country stands at a critical juncture where space can no longer be viewed as merely a distant frontier but as an essential component of both economic growth and national security.
One of the most compelling reasons for Indonesia to focus on space is its potential to drive the economy forward. Remote sensing technology, a key area of space development, offers significant commercial benefits.
Currently, Indonesia spends approximately Rp 475 billion (US$31 million) annually on satellite imagery from foreign sources. This expenditure represents a considerable financial burden, but it also highlights a significant opportunity. By investing in domestic satellite capabilities, Indonesia could transform this cost into an investment thus potentially turning the data into a commercial asset.
Developing at least six remote sensing satellites could not only meet the country’s own data needs but also allow Indonesia to enter the global market. Such satellites can support multiple sectors, particularly agriculture and forestry, which are the backbone of Indonesia’s economy.
Through advanced satellite imagery, farmers can gain insights into crop health, soil conditions, and deforestation trends. This technology would encourage efforts to achieve food security and support environmental, sustainability and governance (ESG) development.
There is one topic which needs commitment and has been pending due to the administration change. Indonesia has long considered the establishment of a spaceport, a stepping stone to become a spacefaring nation.
Situated near the equator, Indonesia enjoys a unique geographical advantage. The location allows for lower fuel consumption during rocket launches. A factor that could make Indonesia an attractive destination for global space launch companies.
