Elon Musk, alongside Indonesian Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin, unveiled SpaceX's satellite internet service for Indonesia's health sector in Denpasar, Indonesia. Musk, adorned in a traditional green batik shirt, expressed his enthusiasm for extending internet access to remote regions, benefiting millions across the archipelago.
The launch event, held at a community health center, marked the introduction of Starlink at three Indonesian health facilities, including Bali and the remote island of Aru. Highlighting the transformative potential, Musk emphasized how internet connectivity can revolutionize healthcare by facilitating real-time data input to address pressing health issues.
While addressing queries about investing in Indonesia's electric vehicle industry, Musk underscored his current focus on Starlink, emphasizing the life-saving impact of connectivity.
The Indonesian government, keen on advancing its EV sector, has long sought Tesla's involvement. As Musk prepares to meet President Joko Widodo, discussions are expected to revolve around Starlink's role and Indonesia's technological aspirations. With Starlink commercially available, Indonesia prioritizes extending services to underserved regions. Having obtained necessary permits, including a very small aperture terminal (VSAT) permit, Starlink is poised to bridge connectivity gaps across the nation.
As SpaceX's Starlink extends its reach globally, Indonesia joins the ranks of countries benefiting from its transformative potential, marking a significant milestone in bridging the digital divide.
SpaceX's satellite division, Starlink, has obtained official approval to operate within Southeast Asia's largest economy, as confirmed by Setiadi in a recent Reuters interview. The necessary permits, including authorization as an internet service provider for retail consumers and the acquisition of a very small aperture terminal (VSAT) permit, have been secured.
Indonesia marks the third Southeast Asian country where Starlink will be operational, following Malaysia's licensing of the firm for internet services in the previous year and a partnership agreement between a Philippines-based firm and SpaceX in 2022. This expansion underscores Starlink's commitment to extending its reach across the region, fostering connectivity and technological advancement.
