The deployment follows extensive joint preparations, including technology demonstrations and laboratory trials conducted since the signing of a comprehensive agreement in March.
Orex SAI established its local subsidiary, Orex SAI Indonesia, in June to lead regional operations and develop a locally type-approved 1.4-GHz radio unit tailored for the 5G FWA project, integrating Open RAN architecture and 5G core technology from NEC. As part of the initial rollout plan, Surge will allocate up to 4,800 base stations to Orex SAI in 2026, covering network equipment and services necessary to build the FWA infrastructure. According to Orex SAI, this network will be the world’s first commercial Open RAN 1.4-GHz 5G FWA system.
The Indonesian Ministry of Communication and Digital (Komdigi) auctioned spectrum in the 1.4-GHz band in October to promote FWA services and increase broadband access, which remains among the lowest in ASEAN due to high deployment costs. Surge secured spectrum in that auction for Region 1, including Jakarta, Papua, and Maluku, while other regions are served by operators like MyRepublic, owned by Eka Mas Republik.
Surge plans to offer flat-rate 5G FWA services at about IDR 100,000 per month, delivering speeds of up to 100 Mbps with no data caps and free installation. Yune Marketatmo, President Director of Surge, stated that the goal is to provide affordable, high-speed internet that enables widespread connectivity across Indonesia.
In addition, Pratama has signed agreements with 26 local distributors as part of its initial market entry in Region 1, aiming to ensure rapid and efficient broadband deployment to households. Shannedy Ong, President Director of Pratama, highlighted that these efforts will help reach consumers quickly and expand access to reliable internet services.
Both Surge and Orex SAI noted that their rollout has benefited from programs supported by Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications and Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. An Asia Nikkei report earlier this month valued the Surge/Orex SAI partnership at approximately US$200 million.
