Indonesia Becomes Founding Member of Global AI Organization

Indonesia has officially joined the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO) as one of its 29 founding members. The move signifies Indonesia's commitment to shaping inclusive global governance for artificial intelligence. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, Airlangga Hartarto, announced that the signing of this milestone occurred during the World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai, China. This strategic step was a direct mandate from President Prabowo Subianto. "The Indonesian government has been asked to participate in the declaration for the establishment of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization," Airlangga stated during an online press conference on Friday evening (17/7/2026). He explained that Indonesia initiated this organization alongside dozens of countries from various regions. In Southeast Asia, besides Indonesia, founding members include Cambodia, Myanmar, Laos, and Malaysia. The initial membership of WAICO is also spread across other continents, including Africa, Europe, and the Americas. "The registration to become a founding member is still open by the global committee until July 31st this month," Airlangga added. Minister Airlangga emphasized that Indonesia's active participation in this global AI cooperation organization aims to guide the future direction of artificial intelligence development. Indonesia seeks to ensure that the use of this technology adheres to safe corridors, follows established norms, and is governed appropriately. "Indonesia's presence is a concrete form of commitment to help build the governance and principles for the development of artificial intelligence itself," he explained. The government hopes this global platform will help curb the potential misuse of cyber technology in the future. "Primarily, we are joining so that AI development at the global level is inclusive, responsible, and capable of delivering tangible benefits to all," Airlangga concluded.