Indonesia Eyes Selaparang as Future Digital Hub for Global Nomads

Lombok Timur, The Gulf Observer: Indonesia’s Minister of Transmigration, M. Iftitah Sulaiman Suryanagara, has proposed transforming the Selaparang Transmigration Area in East Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, into a technology hub comparable to Silicon Valley in the United States, aimed at attracting digital nomads and fostering local innovation.

During his visit to Selaparang on Sunday, Minister Suryanagara highlighted the growing trend of digital nomads — professionals who work remotely using digital technologies while traveling globally — and said the area could serve as a hub for such communities. “We can create a hub for digital nomads here, for global citizens who enjoy moving from place to place and focusing on technology,” he stated.

He further noted that he had discussed the vision with West Nusa Tenggara Governor Lalu Muhammad Iqbal, stressing the importance of building a globally connected technology ecosystem that could position Selaparang as Indonesia’s version of Silicon Valley.

According to the minister, the provincial government is advancing transportation infrastructure projects that will link Lombok with other parts of eastern Indonesia as well as international destinations, including Australia and Malaysia. This, he said, would enhance the area’s appeal and generate positive economic impacts.

Beyond attracting international digital workers, Selaparang is also expected to become a center for nurturing local digital talent, ranging from e-sports athletes and game developers to software programmers. Minister Suryanagara emphasized that transmigration areas should evolve beyond residential purposes and play a vital role in the creative and digital economy.

To realize this vision, three Patriot Expedition Teams have been deployed to map and research Selaparang’s economic potential for the next five to 25 years. “We truly hope to build something that can serve as an economic magnet in Selaparang,” the minister affirmed.