The Ministry of Communication and Informatics has announced that the National Data Center (PDN) in Cikarang, Bekasi, West Java, is expected to become operational in 2025.
This facility, distinct from the Temporary National Data Center 2 in Surabaya that suffered a ransomware attack in late June, represents a critical advancement in the nation’s digital infrastructure.
“By early next year, it will likely be operational,” Hokky Situngkir, Director General of Informatics Application at the Ministry of Communication and Informatics, told a press conference at his office in Jakarta on Friday, August 9, 2024.
He said that the construction of the National Data Center in Cikarang is progressing well, with continuous improvements in infrastructure and design, while citing that communication and informatics ministry is rigorously evaluating the facility’s security measures, data backup systems, and overall design.
In its initial phase of operation, the data center will be managed using a managed service model, where a third party will oversee operations.
However, Kominfo will remain actively involved by providing guidance and support to ensure smooth management.
The National Cyber and Encryption Agency (BSSN) will also be engaged to ensure the highest standards of digital security for the data center.
“We have involved BSSN from the beginning. They have contributed to various aspects of the evaluation by providing notes, recommendations, and assessments,” Hokky said.
The Cikarang National Data Center is being developed under a government-to-government financing scheme, with assistance from the French government. The project is backed by a loan of 164.7 million Euros, equivalent to approximately Rp2.7 trillion (US$171.5 million).
The facility, which will span five hectares with a building area of nearly 16,000 square meters, is scheduled for completion by Indonesia’s Independence Day on August 17, 2024, with President Joko Widodo expected to inaugurate it. However, full operational status is slated for 2025.
The Cikarang data center will feature cutting-edge technology, including 25,000 processor cores, 200 terabits of memory, and a maximum storage capacity of 40 petabytes.
The center’s power capacity will initially be 20 megawatt (mw), expandable to 80 mw, and it will be equipped with internal and external security systems.
Additionally, the center will be built to Tier 4 standards, ensuring uninterrupted service with a global-standard water cooling system.
The surrounding area of the data center will focus on providing cloud computing services and supporting high-tech industries.
In addition to the Cikarang facility, the government plans to establish other data centers at the Greenland International Industrial Center (GIIC)also in Cikarang; Batam in the Riau Islands; and the Nusantara Capital in East Kalimantan.
