Heaptalk, Jakarta — Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison (IDX: ISAT), one of Indonesia’s leading telecommunications providers, announced solid financial results for the first quarter of 2025, signaling continued momentum in its digital transformation journey. Despite ongoing challenges in the competitive telecom market, the company posted a 27% quarter-on-quarter increase in net profit and achieved significant progress in rolling out next-generation network technologies.
The operator reported net income attributable to shareholders of Rp1.31 trillion in Q1, up from the previous quarter, driven by stable revenues of Rp13.58 trillion and efficient operational execution that yielded an EBITDA of Rp6.42 trillion. The company’s average revenue per user (ARPU) rose 4.6% year-on-year to Rp39,200, underpinned by strong customer engagement and digital service offerings.
The first quarter also saw Indosat add 700,000 new mobile subscribers, bringing its total cellular customer base to 95.4 million. This consistent growth underscores Indosat’s ability to maintain customer relevance and loyalty amid intense competition from regional and global telecom players.
“This quarter’s results not only reflect solid financial performance but also the unwavering dedication of our team in serving the people of Indonesia,” said Vikram Sinha, President Director and Chief Executive Officer of Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison. “Amid a highly competitive landscape, we remain committed to our larger purpose of empowering Indonesia.”
Strategic Investments in AI and 5G Infrastructure
Alongside its financial performance, Indosat made substantial strides in infrastructure expansion and digital innovation. The company invested Rp 2.62 trillion in capital expenditures during the quarter, with 90.4% allocated toward the mobile business, particularly the expansion of its 4G network. The number of 4G base transceiver stations (BTS) rose to 202,179 — a 10% increase from the previous year.
A key highlight of the quarter was Indosat’s global leadership in artificial intelligence-powered networking. At the Mobile World Congress 2025 in Barcelona, Indosat announced a strategic collaboration with Nokia and NVIDIA, becoming the first operator in Southeast Asia — and the third globally — to commercially implement AI-RAN (Artificial Intelligence-Radio Access Network) technology.
This AI-enhanced network architecture will power Indosat’s 5G Cloud RAN infrastructure, enabling improved network efficiency, reduced energy consumption, and enhanced service quality for consumers and enterprises alike.
“As we lay the foundation for a digital and AI-driven Indonesia, we are preparing for the future with high-capacity networks designed to support advanced technologies,” Sinha noted. “Our investments in 4G and the upcoming 5G infrastructure are opening access to reliable, high-speed digital services, especially in underserved regions.”
Indosat’s infrastructure enhancements were particularly notable in the Greater Jakarta area. The number of 4G BTS grew by 9% in Inner Jakarta, 3% in Outer Jakarta, and 7% in West Java. These upgrades translated into a 4.7% year-on-year increase in data traffic in Inner Jakarta, indicating strong urban demand for faster, more reliable connectivity.
Positioning as an AI-TechCo
Indosat’s ambitions go beyond network upgrades. The company is positioning itself as an “AI-TechCo” — a telecommunications company powered by artificial intelligence and digital innovation. This strategic transformation is being supported by ecosystem partnerships, talent development initiatives, and inclusive digital services.
Earlier this year, Indosat launched its Digital Hub, a comprehensive digital lifestyle ecosystem integrating entertainment, e-commerce, health, and everyday services. With over 50 million monthly active users and 10 million daily users across its myIM3 and bima+ apps, the platform reflects Indosat’s growing relevance in Indonesia’s digital economy.
Furthermore, Indosat continues to support digital talent development through initiatives like IDCamp and GenSi (Generasi TerkonekSI), aimed at equipping Indonesia’s youth with essential skills in AI, automation, and digital leadership. These programs offer globally recognized certifications and open career pathways in the fast-evolving tech landscape.
“Our journey to become an AI-TechCo has just begun,” Sinha added. “From network investments to cross-industry collaborations, our goal remains the same: to make technology a force for inclusion, innovation, and digital sovereignty.”
