ZTE Corporation and PT Solusi Sinergi Digital Tbk (SURGE) have formed a strategic partnership to deploy the world’s first commercial 5G FWA 1.4GHz service in Indonesia. The collaboration was formalized at MWC Barcelona 2026 on March 5, 2026, marking a significant step in expanding fixed broadband access across the country.
Partnership Background and Spectrum Auction
The partnership follows the official results of Indonesia’s 2025 Broadband Wireless Access (BWA) frequency auction, conducted by the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Komdigi). PT Telemedia Komunikasi Pratama, a subsidiary of SURGE, won the auction for Region-1, which covers Java, Maluku, and Papua. This region represents more than 60% of Indonesia’s total population, making it the country’s most strategically significant digital market.
5G FWA 1.4GHz Service Details and Pricing
The 5G FWA 1.4GHz commercial service launched under the brand IRA – Internet Rakyat on February 19, 2026. The service delivers download speeds of up to 100 Mbps at a monthly price of Rp100,000, approximately US$6, with unlimited data and free modem rental. SURGE completed the Uji Laik Operasi (ULO) regulatory certification for IRA – Internet Rakyat, confirming full operational readiness before launch.
Technology Infrastructure and ZTE’s Role
As SURGE’s primary technology partner, ZTE delivers a fully integrated end-to-end Fixed Wireless Access solution. This includes Radio Access Network (RAN) infrastructure, Customer Premises Equipment (CPE), and comprehensive technical implementation services. The 1.4GHz mid-band spectrum provides a balance between coverage and capacity, offering wider service reach and stronger indoor signal penetration compared to higher frequency bands.
A key element of the deployment is SURGE’s existing fiber optic backbone network running along railway corridors across Java. Integrating 1.4GHz wireless access with this established fiber backbone reduces per-subscriber investment costs and accelerates time-to-market. This approach also supports connectivity expansion to Maluku and Papua.
“We are proud to collaborate with SURGE on the world’s first 1.4GHz 5G FWA implementation. This partnership demonstrates how wireless technology can provide a practical and cost-efficient solution to expand fixed broadband access at scale, particularly in Indonesia.”
Richard Liang, President Director, ZTE Indonesia
“With our experience in developing community-focused digital solutions and our proven operational readiness, we have designed IRA – Internet Rakyat as an inclusive, reliable, and affordable service. With ZTE’s technology and expertise, we are confident in our ability to deliver high-quality internet access to more communities across Indonesia.”
Shannedy Ong, Director, PT Solusi Sinergi Digital Tbk and President Director, PT Telemedia Komunikasi Pratama
Strategic Significance and Future Outlook
Java alone accounts for approximately 56% of Indonesia’s national population, supported by mature infrastructure and strong fixed broadband demand. The demographic scale of Region-1 creates significant efficiencies in spectrum utilization and network deployment. ZTE and SURGE said they will continue to strengthen their partnership through network optimization and expanded service coverage.
The long-term collaboration aims to build cost-efficient fixed broadband infrastructure while accelerating digital transformation throughout Indonesia. The IRA – Internet Rakyat service supports Indonesia’s national objective of expanding equitable internet access, particularly for communities seeking alternatives to traditional fixed-line broadband in underserved areas.