Elon Musk and Indonesian Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin unveiled SpaceX-owned Starlink satellite Internet service in Indonesia on Sunday. The initiative aims to provide better Internet access to the sprawling archipelago's remote areas, boosting connectivity for its health sector.
Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, arrived in Bali by private jet for the launch event at a community health centre in Denpasar, Bali's provincial capital. Donning a green batik shirt, Musk emphasised the transformative potential of the Starlink service for Indonesia's 270 million residents spread across three time zones.
Musk stated, "We are focusing this event on Starlink and the benefits that connectivity brings to remote islands. I think it's really to emphasise the importance of internet connectivity, how much of that can be a lifesaver." The service was activated at three Indonesian health centres, including two in Bali and one on Aru Island in Maluku, aiming to enhance healthcare delivery through high-speed Internet.
ALSO READ: Elon Musk's Neuralink Brain Implant Overcomes First Major Malfunction. Here's What Went Down
How Will Starlink Aid The Health Sector?
A video presentation during the event highlighted how real-time data transmission via high-speed Internet could address health issues such as stunting and malnutrition more effectively. Musk, when questioned about potential investments in Indonesia's electric vehicle sector, clarified his current focus on Starlink. "This event underscores the critical role of Internet connectivity in remote areas, potentially saving lives," he said.
Indonesia has been courting Tesla to establish electric vehicle manufacturing facilities, leveraging its abundant nickel resources. However, Musk's immediate priority remains the Starlink project. He is scheduled to meet Indonesian President Joko Widodo on Monday and speak at the World Water Forum on the island.
Starlink Rollout Plans
Communications Minister Budi Arie Setiadi, present at the launch, announced that Starlink is now commercially available in Indonesia. Initially, the service will target outer and underdeveloped regions. Prior to this, Starlink received the necessary permits to operate as an Internet service provider for retail consumers, including a very small aperture terminal (VSAT) permit.
With approximately 60 per cent of the 7,500 satellites orbiting Earth, SpaceX's Starlink dominates the satellite Internet market. Indonesia is the third Southeast Asian nation to adopt Starlink, following Malaysia and the Philippines. Starlink's global presence includes extensive use in Ukraine, supporting military, medical, business, and humanitarian operations.