Sinar Mas Land and Monash University, Indonesia partner to build AI ecosystem and transform digital education
The MoU signing between Sinar Mas Land, represented by Ferdinand Sadeli (left), and Monash University Indonesia, represented by Professor Matthew Nicholson (right)
BSD City, Tangerang – Sinar Mas Land and Monash University, Indonesia formalised a strategic partnership to advance artificial intelligence (AI) education, applied research, and talent development. The collaboration supports Sinar Mas Land’s ambition to establish the BSD Research AI Center in BSD City, creating new opportunities for students, researchers, and tech industry leaders across Indonesia.
The MoU signing took place in front of distinguished guests attending GSDC 2026. Attendees included leaders from higher education institutions, industry, government agencies, and international organisations from around the world. Official signatories for the agreement included Ferdinand Sadeli, Deputy Group CEO Investment International Tech & Emerging Sinar Mas Land, and Professor Matthew Nicholson, Pro Vice-Chancellor and President of Monash University, Indonesia.
Professor Matthew Nicholson highlighted the shared vision behind this collaboration.
"We are pleased to partner with Sinar Mas Land in advancing initiatives that foster innovation, research excellence, and talent development. Through this collaboration, we look forward to contributing our expertise and global network to support the development of an AI ecosystem that benefits industry, society, and future generations."
Irawan Harahap, CEO Digital Tech Ecosystem & Development Sinar Mas Land, emphasised the role of industry-academic synergy.
"This collaboration represents an important step in strengthening the connection between industry and academia. By combining Monash University’s global research capabilities with Sinar Mas Land’s innovation ecosystem, we aim to create meaningful impact through education, research, and AI-driven solutions that support sustainable development."
Building the BSD Research AI Center of Excellence
The BSD Research AI Center of Excellence unites Monash University's global academic strength with Sinar Mas Land's tech infrastructure in BSD City. This center focuses on applied artificial intelligence, smart city technologies, and sustainable innovation. It bridges academic research and real industry applications across Southeast Asia.
As one of the world’s leading research-intensive universities, Monash University brings deep expertise in research, education, and innovation. Sinar Mas Land provides a thriving tech township through its Digital Hub in BSD City. Together, both organisations will build a dedicated center focused on applied AI solutions.
This collaboration directly supports Indonesia's national agenda for digital transformation and sustainable economic growth. By training highly skilled researchers and data specialists, the partnership addresses the national demand for advanced artificial intelligence expertise.
Indonesia continues to accelerate its digital economy toward the national target of Indonesia Emas 2045. Achieving these goals requires a workforce capable of building, managing, and governing complex technology systems.