Despite the government’s strong push for digitalization through the Digital Population ID (IKD), the practice of requiring photocopies of e-KTPs (electronic national identity cards) remains widespread. Deputy Minister of Home Affairs (Wamendagri) Bima Arya recently shed light on the persistent reasons behind this conventional approach, even as modern digital solutions are being promoted.
According to Bima Arya, the primary challenge is that the utilization of IKD is currently not optimal, largely due to its limited coverage. “The percentage of IKD usage is still quite low at the moment. Consequently, many institutions and individuals continue to rely on traditional e-KTP photocopies and similar physical documents,” Bima explained to reporters on Thursday (23/4).
He further elaborated that the comprehensive development of the IKD system is a lengthy process that necessitates significant investment in technological infrastructure. “Firstly, we need to strengthen our network capabilities, enhance bandwidth, boost overall capacity, and fortify security measures. All of this demands substantial financial resources and a considerable amount of time,” he stated, highlighting the foundational steps required for a robust digital identity system.
Another critical hurdle is the lack of uniform policies among various inter-agency bodies regarding the acceptance and use of digital identity. This inconsistency compels several institutions to fall back on physical documents. “The policies are simply not yet standardized. For instance, institutions like the Financial Services Authority (OJK), Bank Indonesia, or Himbara (state-owned banks) don’t all necessarily have identical policies regarding digital verification. Furthermore, not all of them possess the electronic capabilities required to scan and verify IKD effectively,” Bima clarified.
This disparity in policy and technical readiness often leads institutions to revert to conventional methods. “The reality is that many institutions end up reverting to conventional photocopying. Even if someone presents their IKD, they might be told, ‘Oh, we don’t have the necessary equipment,’ which then renders the digital ID unusable,” Bima remarked, underscoring the practical challenges faced by citizens and institutions alike.
Looking ahead, the government is committed to accelerating the full implementation of IKD by promoting system integration and ensuring the widespread provision of supporting devices. “Over time, for example, we plan to increase budgetary allocations and expand capacity. Crucially, we also need to achieve a consensus among all government agencies and institutions that everyone must be equipped with card readers,” he affirmed, outlining the strategic path towards a fully digital ecosystem.
Bima Arya emphasized that once all necessary infrastructure and policies are fully integrated and aligned, the need for physical e-KTP photocopies will become obsolete. “Not every institution currently possesses these card readers. The goal is for everyone to have a card reader and the appropriate technology. Only then will the era of e-KTP photocopies truly come to an end,” he concluded, envisioning a future where digital identity is seamlessly adopted across the nation.