Indonesia’s Communications Minister Meutya Hafid warned that disrupting undersea internet cables could paralyze 80% of Singapore’s connectivity, countering a former Singaporean parliamentarian’s suggestion that the city-state could cut Indonesia’s internet access. The exchange unfolded after former MP Calvin Cheng Ern Lee shared an infographic claiming 90% of Indonesia’s international internet traffic passes through Singapore, a figure cited by Cheng, while Hafid emphasized the mutual reliance between the two nations.
The Numbers Behind the Tension
Hafid’s warning centered on the 80% risk to Singapore’s connectivity if submarine cables were disrupted, a figure she linked to Indonesia’s internet traffic passing through the city-state. The minister also highlighted Indonesia’s 267 million internet users as a key draw for global tech investment, warning that losing this market could drive firms away from Singapore. These claims align with data from TeleGeography, which noted at least 24 submarine cable systems link the two countries, including 17 operational and seven planned projects.
Cheng’s original post, which questioned whether Singapore could “cut” Indonesia’s access, was quickly clarified as a hypothetical. He later reiterated that Singapore would not take such action, calling the nation “civilised” and “law-abiding.” However, his initial post followed Indonesia’s decision to reduce natural gas exports to Singapore, a move that has strained bilateral relations.
Why It Matters: Interdependence and Energy Disputes
The dispute highlights the deep interdependence between Singapore and Indonesia, not just in digital infrastructure but also in energy. Singapore relies on natural gas imports from Indonesia for 95% of its electricity, with the recent export reduction amounting to less than 2% of the city-state’s daily demand. Indonesia’s Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia argued the cut fell within contractual limits, citing a 91‑92% minimum supply threshold. However, Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong urged compliance with gas supply agreements, stating that contractual rights would be protected.
Hafid’s emphasis on cooperation contrasted with Cheng’s initial suggestion, reflecting broader tensions. The minister framed the issue as a shared responsibility, stating that “digital infrastructure must be protected collectively” to serve both nations and global connectivity.
What May Happen Next
Indonesia’s large digital market remains a critical factor in regional tech investment, while the gas export dispute continues to affect bilateral relations.
Did You Know? Indonesia’s 267 million internet users, as cited by Minister Hafid, are 47 times the population of Singapore, underscoring the nation’s significant role in regional digital infrastructure.
Expert Insight: The exchange reveals the delicate balance between economic interdependence and geopolitical friction. While Indonesia’s digital market is a magnet for global tech firms, Singapore’s energy needs create a counterweight, ensuring both nations have stakes in maintaining stability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of Indonesia’s internet traffic passes through Singapore?
According to a post by former Singaporean parliamentarian Calvin Cheng, approximately 90% of Indonesia’s international internet traffic passes through Singapore.
How many submarine cable systems link Singapore and Indonesia?
At least 24 submarine cable systems connect the two countries, including 17 operational and seven planned projects, as reported by TeleGeography.
What was the scale of Indonesia’s recent gas export reduction to Singapore?
Indonesia reduced natural gas exports by 31 million standard cubic feet per day, equating to less than 2% of Singapore’s total daily gas demand.
As the dispute unfolds, the interplay between digital infrastructure, energy reliance, and regional cooperation will remain a critical factor in shaping the future of Singapore‑Indonesia relations.