Jakarta (ANTARA) – Indonesia is strengthening its digital ecosystem through expanded collaboration with Apple to develop talent and boost innovation, the industry minister said, as new developer academies and institutes open across the country.Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita said on Wednesday the initiative aims to accelerate digital talent development while reinforcing Indonesia’s innovation-driven industrial base.The ministry is also continuing efforts to support the domestic mobile phone and tablet industry through policies and partnerships with global technology firms, including Apple.On Tuesday (April 21), Indonesia inaugurated its fifth Apple Developer Academy and five Apple Developer Institutes, with the main ceremony held at the Apple Developer Institute for Professionals in Jakarta.Kartasasmita said the expansion reflects commitments agreed between the government and Apple under an existing memorandum of understanding covering education, research, and development programs.“The agreement includes the establishment of academies and institutes, along with research initiatives and other collaborative programs,” he said.According to Apple, the new institute—the first of its kind in Indonesia—will expand access to advanced skills training in coding, design, marketing, and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, game development, and development operations.The academies and institutes are expected to train nearly 1,000 students annually starting in 2026, helping to meet growing demand for skilled digital professionals.Kartasasmita also praised the quality of participants, noting that Apple’s training ecosystem offers a structured pathway from foundational learning at academies to more specialized training at institute level.He said the model enables graduates to develop market-ready solutions and adapt to industry needs more effectively.“We believe graduates will bring strong added value and help drive the growth of Indonesia’s digital industry,” he said.The government sees partnerships with global technology firms as key to accelerating digital transformation and improving competitiveness in Southeast Asia’s largest economy.