The three parties also agreed to explore the use of AI for a more secure instant messaging ecosystem
Barcelona, Spain, 4 March 2025 – Republic of Indonesia’s Ministry of Communications & Digital Affairs, with Telkomsel and Google, today announced a strategic collaboration to strengthen digital communication security in Indonesia through the implementation of Rich Communication Services (RCS). This joint announcement, made at Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona 2025, marks the continuation of an initiative first launched by Telkomsel and Google in January 2024.
RCS offers robust security features, from business verification to enhanced protection against scams and phishing. This technology enables users to communicate more securely and effectively, ensuring that messages are exchanged only between verified senders and their intended recipients.
Aligned with Komdigi, Telkomsel, and Google’s commitment to bolstering digital security, the three parties are also examining the potential use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) integrated into the instant messaging ecosystem. While AI is not a core feature of RCS, it could serve as a complementary tool to detect suspicious messages and prevent fraud attempts. As a result, AI would provide an additional layer of protection for users, consistent with the shared goal of creating a safer and more trustworthy digital communication environment.
With enhanced security features, the Ministry also has the potential to utilize RCS Business Messaging (RBM) as an official and verified channel for directly delivering information to the public. With the support of verified accounts, the government can curb the spread of misinformation and strengthen public trust through the distribution of credible and accountable information.
Ismail, Secretary General at Ministry of Communications & Digital Affairs, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to accelerating the adoption of cutting-edge technologies to drive Indonesia’s digital transformation. “We fully support Telkomsel and Google’s initiative in introducing RCS as a more secure and convenient communication solution. This initiative aligns with the Indonesia Emas 2045 vision and the government’s Asta Cita mission, which positions digitalization as a driving force for national sovereignty, paving the way for inclusive and sustainable economic growth in the digital era.
Wong Soon Nam, Chief Strategic Planning Officer at Telkomsel, stated, “Following our initial RCS launch in January 2024, we remain committed to increasing RCS adoption, not only among consumers, but also corporate customers through RBM. This collaboration will further enhance the user experience and help us achieve our goal of creating a more secure, inclusive, and sustainable digital ecosystem.”
From Google’s perspective, Denny Galant, Country Head of Android Platforms & Ecosystems, Indonesia, at Google, added, “Google, together with Telkomsel, aims to ensure that users and businesses in Indonesia fully benefit from RCS. With business verification and advanced security features, RCS can deliver a more secure communication experience, playing a crucial role in building a more trusted digital ecosystem, free from cyber threats.”
RCS is a modern communication standard that not only offers the convenience of text messaging but also includes more secure interactive and multimedia features. RCS is also available on Android devices and through Google Messages. Gemini on Google Messages enables users to boost communication efficiency by instantly drafting messages, exchanging ideas, and planning events within the app. Through this collaboration, Telkomsel, Google, and Komdigi hope to accelerate Indonesia’s digital transformation and continue promoting the use of technology to support the nation’s economic growth.
