Google and Indonesia’s National Cyber and Crypto Agency (BSSN), in collaboration with nonprofits and social enterprises, have announced the launch of strategic initiatives aimed at building a more resilient digital ecosystem in Indonesia.
One of the key initiatives includes the provision of cybersecurity training programs and AI-powered cybersecurity tools to protect government organizations, businesses, and citizens from cybercrime and cyber attacks. The goal is to equip defenders with the necessary skills and tools to combat cyber threats effectively.
In partnership with the Center for Digital Society (CfDS) and the Artificial Intelligence Industry Research and Innovation Collaboration, Google will facilitate discussions among industry experts, policymakers, and other stakeholders to promote the secure and responsible application of AI in Indonesia. This initiative will be carried out at the AI Policy and Skilling Lab with the aim of fostering a safe and ethical AI environment in the country.
Google’s Director of Government Affairs and Public Policy in Indonesia, Putri Alam, highlighted the importance of leveraging AI to address the ‘Defender’s Dilemma,’ where attackers only need one successful intrusion while defenders face challenges in deploying effective defenses. By advancing AI technology and cybersecurity tools, the aim is to shift the balance in favor of defenders and reduce cybercrime-related costs for Indonesian businesses and individuals significantly by 2030.
Furthermore, Google is offering 1000 cybersecurity certificate scholarships to BSSN officials, enabling government personnel with no prior experience in cybersecurity to transition into roles that help strengthen the country’s cybersecurity defenses. Additionally, there will be enhanced collaboration between Mandiant and BSSN’s cybersecurity teams to share best-in-class threat intelligence and enhance overall cybersecurity capabilities.
The partnership between BSSN and Google Cloud will focus on capacity building by developing next-generation cloud-based solutions that leverage AI to rapidly detect and defend against cyber attacks on critical national infrastructure. This collaboration aims to maximize the use of AI to empower defenders while limiting its effectiveness for adversaries.
Moreover, efforts to nurture cybersecurity talent in underserved communities, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and social enterprises are underway. Through cybersecurity training and the adoption of AI-powered cybersecurity tools, individuals from these communities will be equipped to defend against cyber threats effectively. Google’s philanthropic arm, The Asia Foundation, is leading this initiative in partnership with various organizations such as the Association of Women’s Resource Development Centers (PPSW), the Association for Advancement of Small Business (PUPUK), and the Muhammadiyah Economic and Entrepreneurship Council in Indonesia.
The funding for these initiatives comes from a US$15 million grant to support The Asia Foundation in launching the APAC Cybersecurity Fund in collaboration with the CyberPeace Institute and Global Cyber Alliance. This fund aims to strengthen cybersecurity efforts in the Asia-Pacific region and empower underserved communities with the necessary tools and resources to combat cyber threats effectively.
In conclusion, the collaborative efforts between Google, BSSN, nonprofits, and social enterprises underline a shared commitment to building a more resilient digital ecosystem in Indonesia. By leveraging AI and cybersecurity tools, the aim is to enhance cybersecurity capabilities, equip defenders with the necessary skills, and empower underserved communities to defend against cyber threats effectively.