According to a study by Kearney, the use of AI technology has the potential to contribute nearly US$1 trillion to Southeast Asia’s gross domestic product (GDP) by 2030. Indonesia is projected to contribute $366 billion of this amount. A 2023 study conducted by Access Partnership and ELSAM later also estimates that Generative AI (Gen AI) could potentially unlock a productive capacity of $243.5 billion in Indonesia, equivalent to nearly one-fifth of GDP in 2022.
Given this significant value and potential, Indonesia is poised to become an AI economic powerhouse within ASEAN. Therefore, it is crucial for the government and corporations to collaborate on this journey toward inclusive economic growth. Gen AI, with its ability to unleash creativity, accelerate discovery, and enhance efficiency, is a game-changer for economic and social transformation.
These capabilities of Gen AI are achievable because it introduces two critical factors: natural language interfaces and reasoning engines. The natural language interface enables us to interact with computers using everyday language. Meanwhile, reasoning engines can capture, process, and derive insights from a variety of rapidly growing data sources. This is not merely about automation, but about enabling smarter, faster decision-making and uncovering hidden opportunities.
There are three main contributors to any AI application: the algorithm, the data that feeds the algorithm, and the scientists who train and fine-tune the algorithm. To ensure the accuracy of its answers or recommendations, AI requires increasing amounts of data. The quality, accuracy, and completeness of this data directly impact the effectiveness of an algorithm. The role of scientists is to select the data and apply rules to determine the appropriate algorithms.
The question now is, how do we manage the potential for any discrimination caused by biases in training the AI technology? Powerful new technologies, such as AI, give us grounds for optimism, given their many potential benefits when they are developed and deployed responsibly. At the same time, we should not ignore their potential pitfalls.
In an interview with an AI expert, Sarah Johnson, she emphasized the importance of responsible AI development. Responsible AI serves as the foundation for economic acceleration, she stated. We need to ensure that AI algorithms are designed to be fair, unbiased, and transparent. This involves careful data selection, rigorous testing, and ongoing evaluation to address any potential biases.
To achieve this, organizations and governments must work together to establish ethical guidelines and regulatory frameworks for AI implementation. This will not only mitigate biases but also build trust among users and stakeholders. Johnson added, Transparency and explainability are crucial. AI systems should provide clear reasoning behind their decisions, allowing users to understand and challenge them if needed.
Addressing concerns about data privacy and security, another researcher, Dr. Lee Wong, highlighted the need for strong data protection measures. As AI relies on vast amounts of data, it is essential to prioritize data privacy and ensure robust security protocols, he said. By implementing strict data anonymization and encryption measures, we can protect individual privacy while utilizing AI’s potential for societal benefit.
The responsible development of AI offers immense opportunities for economic growth and societal advancement. However, it requires a collective effort from governments, organizations, and stakeholders to address ethical considerations, ensure unbiased algorithms, and protect privacy. By embracing these principles, Indonesia can fully maximize the benefits of AI and position itself as a regional leader in the AI-driven economy.
In conclusion, the potential of AI to contribute to Southeast Asia’s GDP is remarkable, with Indonesia projected to play a significant role. As we move forward, responsible AI development must be at the forefront, ensuring fairness, transparency, and the protection of individual rights. By laying the groundwork for inclusive economic growth, Indonesia can harness the transformative power of AI and create a prosperous future for all.
