The Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming/Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) and Tools for Humanity Corporation (TFH) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore investment opportunities in Indonesia’s digital sector. 

The collaboration focuses on facilitating TFH’s investment in the development and production of Orb, a specialized camera device used in the artificial intelligence-based digital identity system, World ID.

TFH, a U.S.-based global technology company, developed World ID, a digital verification system that ensures identity authentication without collecting or storing personal data. This technology strengthens digital security and anti-bot verification, addressing rising threats such as deepfakes, identity theft, and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven cyberattacks. World ID allows users to prove their identity online without sharing personal information.

Deputy Minister of Investment and Downstreaming/Deputy Head of BKPM, Todotua Pasaribu, emphasized that digital sector investment aligns with Indonesia’s Digital Vision 2045, which aims to build an inclusive and collaborative digital ecosystem. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to accelerating this agenda through investments in digital infrastructure, technological innovation, and industry competitiveness.

"Indonesia’s Digital Vision 2045 places innovation at the core of the country’s digital ecosystem. In the 2025-2029 National Development Plan and President Prabowo’s Asta Cita, digital transformation is a key pillar in enhancing Indonesia’s global competitiveness and productivity," Todotua said as quoted in a statement on Friday, March 21, 2025.

He highlighted the significant potential of Indonesia’s digital economy, projected to reach US$130 billion in 2025. This growth is expected to be driven by infrastructure investment, improved internet access, and innovations in sectors such as fintech, healthtech, and edtech, supported by a tech-savvy young population.

"With a digital market projection of US$ 130 billion by 2025 and potential growth to US$360 billion by 2030, investment in this sector − especially in artificial intelligence − will significantly contribute to the national GDP," Todotua added.

Damien Kieran, Chief Legal and Privacy Officer of TFH, acknowledged Indonesia’s strong position in the global digital ecosystem and TFH’s commitment to supporting the country’s technology industry growth.

"Indonesia is at the forefront of Asia’s digital transformation. The country is well-positioned to accelerate its role as a regional and global technology hub," Kieran said.

He pointed out the challenges posed by rapid digital economy expansion, including increased risks of AI-driven fraud, deepfakes, and identity theft. The World ID technology, supported by the Orb device, offers a privacy-focused identity verification solution through unique iris scanning without storing personal data.

"With support from the Ministry of Investment and BKPM, we are committed to exploring Orb assembly opportunities in Indonesia − not only for the domestic market but also for Southeast Asia," Kieran said.

TFH launched Orb in Jakarta in February as part of its initial presence in Indonesia. Under the MoU, the Ministry of Investment and BKPM will facilitate investment licensing and help TFH identify available incentives based on existing regulations. Meanwhile, TFH will seek potential local industry partners, invest in production facility development, and provide technical support and training for local partners.