JakartaGlobe-May 20
Elon Musk’s Starlink Internet service was officially launched in Bali on Sunday, but Communication and Informatics Minister Budi Arie Setiadi disclosed that several aspects of its launch in Indonesia are still under review. These include concerns related to the network operation center (NOC) and taxation. “To maintain fair competition among all mobile operators, the ministry is carefully examining various aspects of Starlink’s introduction,” Setiadi said during a press conference at the World Water Forum (WWF) Media Center on Sunday. Issues being scrutinized include the establishment of the NOC, customer service standards, and taxation policies, including value-added tax (VAT) and income tax. Setiadi emphasized that all internet operators, including Starlink, should fulfill their tax obligations. One crucial matter being discussed by the Indonesian government is ensuring that Starlink’s NOC operates within the country’s jurisdiction. Minister Budi is particularly wary of the possibility of offshore NOCs being exploited for illicit activities like online gambling and pornography. The government insists on the NOC being located in Indonesia so that regulators can take direct action if Starlink violates domestic regulations. He said that while technologically Starlink can address Indonesia’s internet coverage shortcomings, national sovereignty must not be compromised. Budi added that they also do not want Starlink Internet service providers to dominate the market and neglect their responsibilities. Satellites moving into other countries are also feared to pose a threat to domestic user data. “This is dangerous (regarding domestic user data) because satellites moving into other countries could access our data, and of course, we don’t want that to happen. So, let’s work together and seek support. We don’t want Indonesia to merely become a market, neglecting the protection of our citizens, especially those who need our services and access,” said Budi. Read more at: https://jakartaglobe.id/tech/indonesia-demands-starlinks-network-operation-center-within-borders-to-protect-national-sovereignty
