Mangkunegaran Digital Day 2024 leads the city of Solo to become sustainable digital hub through the integration of technology and culture

Mangkunegaran, in collaboration with Katadata Indonesia and East Ventures, a leading venture capital firm in Southeast Asia, hosted the “Mangkunegaran Digital Day 2024”, to facilitate in-depth discussions on strategies and concrete steps that can be implemented to accelerate digital transformation in Solo.

According to the East Ventures – Digital Competitiveness Index (EV-DCI) 2024, Solo, part of Central Java, demonstrates significant potential for enhancing its digital competitiveness, ranking 10th out of 38 provinces. The report highlights that Solo has a strong foundation to evolve into a sustainable digital hub, owing to its efforts in integrating cultural traditions with technological innovation.

The king of Mangkunegaran, K.G.P.A.A Mangkoenagoro X, emphasized the importance of culture in supporting the development of a sustainable digital ecosystem. He stated that by combining cultural traditions with technological innovation, Solo can create an environment that fosters digital growth while preserving and respecting local heritage.

“This is a pivotal moment for us to share our vision and mission at Mangkunegaran. We hope that through this event, we can lay a solid foundation for a brighter future, with culture as the main cornerstone,” said K.G.P.A.A Mangkoenagoro X during the opening of the Mangkunegaran Digital Day 2024, themed ‘Solo Digital Hub: Merintis Jalan Menuju Pusat Digital Berkelanjutan (Paving the Way to a Sustainable Digital Center),’ held at Pendopo Mangkunegaran on Monday, 19 August 2024.

At the event, Roderick Purwana, Managing Partner at East Ventures, pointed out the importance of a digital competitiveness index to assess a city’s progress in the current technological era. He suggested that it can serve as a reference for formulating strategies and policies for digital development at the national, provincial, and city levels.

East Ventures – Digital Competitiveness Index (EV-DCI) provided several policy recommendations to enhance regional digital competitiveness, including focusing on the development of adequate technological infrastructure, increasing internet access, and providing digital skills training for the local workforce. According to Roderick, policies that support innovation and facilitate access to technology are crucial for creating a conducive environment for digital growth.

Roderick also highlighted the significant role venture capital plays in supporting the digital ecosystem, particularly in regions like Solo. Venture capital not only provides necessary funding for startups and new technology companies but also offers crucial strategic guidance during the early stages of growth. With this support, companies can overcome challenges, accelerate innovation, and significantly increase their contribution to the local digital economy.

With this support, companies can address the challenges they face, accelerate innovation, and significantly increase their contribution to the local digital economy.

“We are pleased to contribute to this event and to be Mangkunegaran’s Digital Partner. We extend our deepest appreciation to Mangkunegaran for its efforts in preserving Solo’s culture through technology, serving as a positive example for other cities. This collaboration is a tangible testament to East Ventures’ commitment to actively support initiatives that promote inclusivity in the digital economy across the region. We hope this event can empower Solo’s digital potential and have a significant positive impact on strengthening Indonesia’s digital sovereignty,” said Roderick.

Vikram Sinha, CEO of Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison, also shared his insights on how regions can leverage digital economic opportunities. He highlighted the importance of creating an ecosystem that supports innovation and technology access, including investing in digital infrastructure and technology training.

“To utilize the digital economic opportunities, we need to create an environment that supports innovation and technology access. We are committed to collaborating with various stakeholders to ensure that the benefits of digital transformation are felt equitably across all regions,” said Vikram.

The event also featured “East Ventures Open Book,” a session that provided information related to venture capital, the startup ecosystem, and investment in Indonesia. Melisa Irene, Partner at East Ventures, expressed confidence that by supporting innovation and providing a platform for startups, they can strengthen Indonesia’s digital ecosystem and ensure sustainable growth.

Through the Mangkunegaran Digital Day 2024, Solo has taken concrete steps towards the harmonious integration of cultural wealth and technological innovation. This collaboration across various sectors is expected to strengthen Solo’s position as a digital hub while serving as an inspiring example for other cities to leverage technology for economic advancement and cultural preservation.