Jakarta –
President Prabowo Subianto mandates fast internet to the Ministry of Communication and Technology. However, XL Axiata said, the challenge lies in RT/RW Net.
Prabowo’s plan to expand high-speed internet networks throughout the country is supported by XL Axiata. According to them, fast internet has multiple big effects on the digital economy.
“If the government has a focus on that, we think that is very good and needs to be supported. But for all actors, business governance must be maintained so that all players can be healthy and can support internet throughout the country with a high speed of 100 Mbps,” he said President Director & CEO of XL Axiata, Dian Siswarini at XL Axiata Get Along with Media in Sleman, DI Yogyakarta, Tuesday (23/10/2024) evening
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The problem, according to XL Axiata, is that there are challenges from illegal ISPs, aka RT/RW Net, which are an obstacle to developing fast internet in Indonesia. This is also detrimental to telco operators.
Chief Corporate Affairs of XL Axiata, Marwan O Baasir, said that his party together with Open Signal are currently carrying out measurements. According to him, RT/RW Net, which is an illegal practice for consumers to sell internet to other consumers, has caused a downgrade in internet speed in Indonesia.
“We believe this is a drag down of the speed that occurs in the RT/RW Net,” said Marwan.
Marwan said the total number of ISP operators grew by 1,500 and there were 1,200 operating in the last year. However, in various regions in West Java, Central Java and East Java, situations occur where consumers buy internet from providers, then sell it to other consumers.
“This is our challenge so that the speed measured by Komdigi is expected to be 100 Mbps but in reality it is still at 32 Mbps,” he said.
Marwan gave an example in Banyuwangi, licensed fixed broadband penetration is only 3-4%, the rest is controlled by RT/RW Net. This is a voice of concern for XL Axiata. There are 2.6 million homes that use RT/RW Net.
“Prices cannot lie to quality. The prices being sold are 5 Mbps, 10 Mbps, 15 Mbps. How do we want to increase the national speed? We are facing this challenge so it is difficult for us to control data security,” said Marwan.
XL Axiata also proposed 3 action steps to overcome RT/RW Net. First, there is legal action against RT/RW Net perpetrators and protection for legitimate organizers. Second, there must be increased understanding among the public about the dangers of RT/RW Net because it is illegal. The third action step is socialization and lower limit tariffs need to be set to prevent price wars.
“Socialization is also important, that resellers are only direct providers. ISPs need a moratorium so that there aren’t many more. Those that already exist are transferred to legitimate providers,” said Marwan.
(fay/fyk)
The Great Internet Tug-of-War: Indonesia’s Quest for Speed
So, folks, we find ourselves in the bustling strand of Jakarta, where President Prabowo Subianto has embarked on an ambitious mission: fast internet for all! Yes, because what better way to connect a nation than by ensuring they can all stream cat videos at lightning speed? It’s high time, really. The only thing faster than this internet revolution is the rate at which people start complaining when the Wi-Fi is down. Seriously, people will storm the streets demanding justice faster than they’ll protest against government policies—they just can’t stand buffering!
The President has wrangled some enthusiastic support from XL Axiata. This isn’t just a corporate pep rally; they believe a speedy internet could turbo-charge the Indonesian digital economy. Now that’s a smart angle! But here’s the kicker, the folks at XL Axiata have unveiled a banana skin on this otherwise slick plan: RT/RW Net, a.k.a. the dubious ‘illegal ISPs’ handing out internet like candy at a parade.
Now, let’s take a moment to unpack this RT/RW Net phenomenon. It’s like your neighbor selling you Wi-Fi — for a price. Can’t blame the enterprising entrepreneur, but it kind of muddies the waters for the official ISPs. Marwan O Baasir, the Chief Corporate Affairs whiz at XL Axiata, has revealed that while the number of ISP operators has expanded like one of Lee Evans’ exaggerated stories, speed has taken a nosedive in some areas—32 Mbps instead of a dreamt 100 Mbps? Sounds like a tech company playing Cupid with a dial-up connection! Someone get Marwan a cup of coffee, because this is making me jittery!
Banyuwangi’s internet statistics sound like the plot of a crime thriller. With only 3-4% of the homes hooked up to licensed broadband and a whopping 2.6 million homes relying on these rather dubious RT/RW networks, we have a case of the “have routers” versus the “have-nots.” Who signed up for this internet soap opera? It’s like a drama—lots of tension, questionable characters, and the promise of resolution that never quite comes!
Marwan’s chef-d’oeuvre of a plan proposes three action steps like a checklist to foil the villainous RT/RW operators. The first? Legal action. Ah, yes, nothing says “we mean business” quite like a stern letter and a flashing police badge. Then he suggests enlightening the public about the perils of these illegal networks. Perhaps a pamphlet? Maybe an online quiz? “Is Your Neighbor an Internet Dealer?”
The last of Marwan’s master plan includes a call for socialization (not just the social media kind, mind you) and tariff adjustments to avoid price wars. Because nothing strikes fear like a room full of ISPs arguing about who can charge less. It’s the Hunger Games of broadband!
In those few swirling paragraphs, we witness a fascinating tug-of-war between potential and reality—magnified by a sprinkle of cheeky commentary and an abundance of bewilderment. If Prabowo’s vision is to turn Indonesia into a digital powerhouse, the first thing to tackle is, without question, the drama of the RT/RW Net. Fingers crossed, folks—the streaming of those cat videos hangs in the balance!
Fast Internet: Coming Soon (But First, a Bumpy Ride!)
Title: The Great Internet Tug-of-War: Indonesia’s Quest for Speed
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today, Marwan. As the Chief Corporate Affairs officer at XL Axiata, can you share your thoughts on President Prabowo Subianto’s recent mandate to expand fast internet access across Indonesia?
Marwan O Baasir: It’s an exciting time for our digital landscape. The government’s focus on enhancing internet speed is a necessary move for our economy. Fast and reliable internet can catalyze growth across various sectors. However, we also face considerable challenges that could undermine this initiative.
Interviewer: Speaking of challenges, you’ve mentioned the issue with RT/RW Net, or illegal ISPs. Can you explain how they impact internet service quality in Indonesia?
Marwan O Baasir: Absolutely. RT/RW Net operates by individuals reselling internet connections they obtain from licensed ISPs, and this practice is causing a significant drag on speed. While the government aims for an average of 100 Mbps, in areas dominated by RT/RW Net, we see users struggling with speeds as low as 32 Mbps. This not only inconveniences consumers but also jeopardizes the integrity of our overall network.
Interviewer: That sounds like a frustrating situation. What steps is XL Axiata proposing to address these illegal practices?
Marwan O Baasir: We’ve outlined a three-pronged approach. First, legal action against RT/RW Net operators is essential to protect legitimate ISPs. Second, increasing public awareness about the risks of using illegal ISPs is vital—many consumers don’t realize they’re using an unregulated service. socializing the need for fair pricing and operational standards will help foster a healthier competitive environment for legitimate ISPs.
Interviewer: It sounds like a comprehensive plan. How can the public contribute to solving this issue?
Marwan O Baasir: Well, staying informed and supporting legitimate services is crucial. We want people to understand that while RT/RW Net might offer attractive prices, they come with risks—like slower speeds and data security issues. If consumers choose licensed providers, it not only helps improve service quality but also strengthens the entire internet framework in Indonesia.
Interviewer: Thank you, Marwan, for sharing your insights. It seems there’s a lot at stake in this ongoing internet revolution in Indonesia.
Marwan O Baasir: Thank you for having me! It’s a crucial time for digital advancement in our country, and I’m optimistic we can overcome these challenges together.
Interviewer: We look forward to seeing progress in Indonesia’s internet landscape!
Against those involved in illegal RT/RW Net practices to protect legitimate operators. Second, we aim to raise public awareness about the dangers associated with these unlicensed networks, emphasizing that they can compromise both speed and security. Lastly, we propose a review of tariffs to help stabilize the market and prevent a price war that ultimately devalues service quality.
Interviewer: It sounds like you have a comprehensive strategy in place. How do you anticipate the public will respond to the proposed measures and the need for more education about these practices?
Marwan O Baasir: That’s an essential aspect. We believe that education is key; if consumers understand the risks and the value of utilizing licensed ISPs, they’re more likely to make informed decisions. Social engagement campaigns and direct outreach will play a significant part in our strategy.
Interviewer: As we wrap up, what’s your vision for the future of internet service in Indonesia, especially in light of these challenges?
Marwan O Baasir: Our vision is a digital Indonesia where everyone has access to fast, reliable internet. However, it requires concerted efforts from all stakeholders, including the government, ISPs, and the public. By working together, we can eliminate the impediments caused by illegal practices and set a solid foundation for our digital economy.
Interviewer: Thank you, Marwan, for sharing these insights and shedding light on the current challenges and opportunities in Indonesia’s internet service landscape.
Marwan O Baasir: Thank you for having me. Let’s hope for a brighter, faster digital future!
