Indonesia eyes new spectrum allocation for future 6G networks

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs has stated that Indonesia needs additional frequency spectrum to support the development of future 6G mobile network technology.

"We have to release new frequencies. Relying on existing frequencies will simply not be enough," Adis Alifiawan, the ministry’s Director of Radio Frequency Spectrum, Satellite Orbits, and Digital Infrastructure Standardization, said.

Speaking at a panel discussion with the Indonesian Telematics Society (Mastel) in Jakarta on Thursday, Alifiawan noted that Indonesia's mobile spectrum capacity is projected to reach around 712 MHz following the upcoming auctions of the 700 MHz and 2.6 GHz frequency bands.

However, because future 6G deployments will demand significantly more bandwidth, the currently available spectrum is deemed insufficient, necessitating the preparation of additional bands.

Alifiawan estimated that each telecom operator will require approximately 200 MHz of spectrum to run 6G services optimally.

In contrast, the largest single frequency block currently available through the upcoming auction process offers only around 190 MHz.

He added that mid-band frequencies remain one of the most promising options for 6G, as they provide an ideal balance between network capacity and coverage area.

Nevertheless, the ministry is still reviewing various spectrum alternatives, including the upper 6 GHz band.

This high-frequency band is among the primary candidates for 6G services being discussed globally ahead of the 2027 World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC).

Alifiawan stated that the government remains open to discussions with industry players, academia, and other stakeholders to gather input on spectrum allocation, ensuring it delivers maximum economic and social benefits.

This collaborative process, he added, is essential to align spectrum policies with industry needs, technological advancements, and the public interest.

"We hope to receive diverse views and input for our consideration, especially regarding the public value it creates," he said.

Translator: Farhan Arda, Raka Adji

Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono

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