Jokowi Launches Freeport's 5G Underground Mining Technology in Papua

TheIndonesia.co - President Joko Widodo has launched the 5G underground smart mining technology that will be used in PT Freeport Indonesia’s (PTFI) operations in Papua.

During the launching event, the President noted that it is important for national mining industry to catch up on digitalization in order to stay competitive. And the 5G underground mining is seen as a necessity that must be implemented in the industry.

“Our mining sector shouldn’t get left behind from other countries, and it must immediately implement artificial intelligence, internet of things, machine learning, and big data to support mining operations,” President Jokowi said on Thursday, September 1, as reported by Antara.

He added that Indonesian mining industry is particularly in need of technological intervention considering the geographical and connectivity challenges that the country continues to face.

“Today, we prove that we are one step ahead by implementing the first 5G smart mining technology in Southeast Asia owned by PTFI and supported by [state-owned communications company] PT Telkomsel, to support automation and remote control as well as improving workplace safety and productivity,” Widodo explained.

By employing the technology, underground mining operations are controlled remotely, and the monitoring is done through AI cameras that is expected to minimize work accidents.

The President also expressed his appreciation that the technology is mainly manned by local manpower.