Elon Musk launches Starlink satellite Internet service in Indonesia

Musk affirmed that the Starlink satellite Internet service in Indonesia will help millions of people in remote areas of the country access the Internet. He said: 'If you have access to the Internet, you can learn everything.'

Starlink was launched at three Indonesian medical centers, including two in Bali and one on the remote island of Aru in Maluku. At the opening ceremony, a video presentation showed that high-speed Internet allows real-time data input to better address health challenges such as stunting and malnutrition.

According to Communications Minister Budi Arie Setiadi, who also attended the launch in Bali, Starlink service will be prioritized to focus on remote, underdeveloped areas.

After receiving the small-sized terminal (VSAT) license, Starlink received a license to operate as an Internet service provider for retail customers and was licensed to provide the network.

Indonesia is the third country in Southeast Asia where Starlink operates. Previously, last year Malaysia granted a license to provide Internet services to SpaceX, and in 2022, a company based in the Philippines signed an agreement with SpaceX.

SpaceX is expected to continue deploying Starlink services in Singapore this year.

Kareem Winters

Update 20 May 2024