Frequency Cost 5G Indonesia

The cost of using the frequency spectrum is one of the factors that determines the speed of the 5G network expansion in Indonesia. The range of 5G signals in Indonesia is still low, about 4.4%, although it's been commercial since mid-2021.

The Ministry of Communication and Digital (Comdicular) assesses affordable spectrum cost policies can make a much bigger space for telecommunications operators to invest and expand network infrastructure.

Secretary General Komdigi Ishmael says, the management of the frequency spectrum needs to consider the balance between the acceptance of the state, the ability to invest industry, and the benefits of connectivity for society.

"Spectrum is not just about how the government earns income from its use, but also about making sure the spectrum utilization costs remain affordable. That way, the entire operator can build and develop the infrastructure as soon as possible," Ishmael said in the discussion of the Bali Tech Week panel at Denmarket, Bali, Monday (19 / 10 / 2026).

Ishmael explained that the spectrum of frequencies is not only a source of acceptance of the country, but also a strategic instrument to encourage the development of digital infrastructure. The costs that fit the industry's capabilities are rated can help operators allocate investment for network development, including 5G technology.

He mentioned that the 4G network in Indonesia has reached over 98% of the region. Meanwhile, 5G development continues so that the spectrum needs become increasingly important to support the expansion of new generations of technology.

"Over 98 percent of Indonesia has been connected to the 4G network. 5G development is also going very fast. Therefore, the spectrum frequency issue becomes very important," the tour.

Ishmael said, the government has changed the approach to frequency spectrum management in the last five to seven years. One of its forms was seen at the launch of the latest spectrum auction which, according to him, offered relatively affordable prices to keep the operators in place to continue the investment network.

"I think the entire operator now has enough space to build a 5G network," he said.

Nevertheless, telecommunication infrastructure development requires large capital spending and long development time. Therefore, the spectrum policy needs to account for the continued investment of the operator, not just the acceptance of the country in the short term.

"The keyword we need to note is sustainability. The infrastructure development takes a long time and a great investment. Therefore, sustainability became one of the most important aspects," said Ishmael.

According to the Strategic Plan Ministry of Communication and Digital (Renstra Comdigy) 2025- 2029 5G networks will be expanded to 7% in 2029. 700 MHz and 2.6 GHz frequency auctions that have been done several years ago are called being able to jack up this fast internet connection forward.