Indonesia Collaborates with AI Singapore to Develop Open Language Model for National Growth

Four Indonesian entities have partnered with AI Singapore, the country’s national AI programme, to develop a large language model (LLM) specifically for the Indonesian language. The collaboration comes as existing models from OpenAI and Google primarily focus on English. According to Statista data, English accounts for 58.8% of web content, while Indonesian represents only 0.6%. This stark disparity highlights the need for research and development in the Indonesian language. The collaborative project, initiated by AI Singapore, BRIN, KORIKA, Glair.ai, and Datasaur.ai, aims to create an open Indonesian language LLM that can be utilized by various stakeholders. By developing this technology, AI Singapore recognizes the vast potential of Indonesia, contributing to its AI advancements in Southeast Asia. Deputy Minister of Communication and Information, Nezar Patria, believes the project’s success will result in AI speaking regional languages, promoting linguistic diversity in the ASEAN region. The development of an Indonesian LLM brings several benefits, such as improving research quality, enhancing public accessibility, supporting technological advancements, and bolstering human resources. Moreover, it opens doors for knowledge acquisition, encompassing scientific and cultural contexts. In addition to societal advantages, implementing LLM Bahasa Indonesia will enhance the Indonesian government’s communication with the public and potentially contribute to national economic growth. This collaboration between Indonesian entities and AI Singapore exhibits a commitment to advancing language technologies while fostering inclusive AI development within the nation.