Indonesia is a country blessed with natural wealth, biodiversity, and cultural diversity. With over 17,000 islands and countless unique ecosystems, it’s no exaggeration to call Indonesia a living laboratory. From the coral reefs of Wallacea to the peat forests of Kalimantan, our land holds discoveries waiting to happen. However, the real question is: are we investing enough in science to turn this potential into real progress?
For centuries, scientists from around the world have been fascinated by Indonesia’s biodiversity. In the 19th century, British naturalist Alfred Russel Wallace developed the theory of natural selection while studying animals in Indonesia—independently of Charles Darwin. Today, modern Indonesian and international researchers are using advanced technologies like environmental DNA (eDNA) to explore marine biodiversity, and are mapping carbon emissions from peatlands to support climate action. But while the country is rich in resources and talent, the system that supports science in Indonesia is still weak.
Indonesia currently spends only 0.2% of its GDP on research and development. This figure is far below the average for OECD countries (2.4%) and much lower than regional neighbors such as South Korea (4.8%), China (2.1%), and Singapore (1.9%). Most government research funding is short-term, often restricted to one year, and bound by rigid spending rules. This makes it difficult for scientists to pursue long-term, curiosity-driven projects. Worse still, only 38% of Indonesia’s R&D budget goes to universities—where most scientists, students, and PhD researchers are based.
To address this, the Indonesian government established the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) to centralize and coordinate research efforts across institutions. In theory, BRIN has a lot of potential. It can create unified strategies, reduce duplication, and fund large-scale projects in food, health, energy, and technology. However, many scientists have expressed concern that BRIN adds more bureaucracy instead of reducing it. The merging of previously independent research bodies has led to a loss of academic freedom and flexibility. For BRIN to truly support science, it needs to act as a facilitator, not just a regulator—offering multi-year, transparent, and merit-based funding.
At the heart of a strong science ecosystem are universities. Around the world—in countries like the United States, Germany, and South Korea—universities play a key role in producing both knowledge and skilled people. Basic science, the type of research that leads to breakthroughs like vaccines, solar cells, and internet technology, is mostly born in university labs. These institutions train the next generation of researchers and act as bridges to industry. Yet in Indonesia, many universities still lack research infrastructure, funding autonomy, and collaboration with the private sector.
Speaking of industry, the private sector is an essential but underused player in Indonesia’s science landscape. In many advanced economies, private companies fund more than half of all R&D. In Indonesia, most companies are still hesitant to invest in research. This needs to change. Businesses can help by supporting university partnerships, investing in science-based startups, and applying research to solve real-world problems—like smart agriculture, clean energy, and digital health.
Indonesia doesn’t have to start from scratch. We can learn from other nations. South Korea made science a national priority after the Korean War, investing heavily in STEM education and research. Now, it’s a global leader in semiconductors, green energy, and biotech. Singapore, despite its small size and lack of natural resources, invested in knowledge as its main asset—creating world-class universities, innovation hubs, and consistent funding mechanisms. Germany developed a strong network of research institutes that work hand-in-hand with industries to turn discoveries into products. All these countries have one thing in common: long-term government commitment, strong university systems, and a thriving research culture.
To build a science-powered future, Indonesia needs synergy. Government must provide flexible, multi-year, merit-based funding. BRIN must evolve into a service-oriented, research-friendly agency. Universities need more autonomy, infrastructure, and incentives to lead national research efforts. The private sector must step in—not only as consumers of innovation, but as co-creators. Communities and citizens must also be engaged through public science education and local knowledge initiatives. Together, these stakeholders form the backbone of a national innovation system.
Looking ahead to Vision Indonesia 2045, our nation’s centenary goal of becoming a high-income, innovation-driven country, science must not be treated as a luxury—but as a necessity. We must invest in people, in ideas, and in institutions. We must build trust in our research system, fund excellence wherever it exists, and bring science closer to the needs of society.
Great Sir. What is your view on the following:
1. Diversifying research funding: State budget alone is insufficient. Philanthropic grants and CSR funds could be integrated into a national research fund as matching contributions to expand the funding pool.
2. Establishing a National Innovation Council to formalize performance agreements between key stakeholders—BRIN, universities, and ministries/agencies.
Certainly. Diversifying research funding through philanthropic and CSR matching contributions alongside state budgets is a prudent strategy to expand the national research capacity. Establishing a National Innovation Council to formalize performance agreements among BRIN, universities, and ministries is a vital step towards enhanced coordination, accountability, and impactful research outcomes. Both initiatives are crucial for a robust and effective innovation ecosystem.