Unveiling Innovation: Iranian House of Innovation and Technology Opens in Indonesia
In a significant move to enhance economic collaboration, an Iranian House of Innovation and Technology (iHiT) has been inaugurated in Jakarta, Indonesia. This initiative aims to strengthen the export of knowledge-based products and bolster the economic ties between Iran and Indonesia. Supported by the Vice-Presidency for Science, Technology, and Knowledge-based Economy, this center aims to serve as a bridge for Iranian companies looking to expand their presence in Southeast Asia.
The center’s opening coincided with the 37th Indonesia Hospital Expo, held from September 25 to 28, where Iranian firms showcased their innovations. Iran’s ambassador to Jakarta, Mohammad Boroujerdi, expressed optimism that the establishment of this center would mark a pivotal moment in enhancing economic relationships between the two nations. He noted that it would pave the way for a stronger Iranian presence in Southeast Asian markets and bolster joint efforts between Tehran and Jakarta.
The newly established center aims to:
- Facilitate the entry of Iranian businesses into Indonesian markets.
- Promote cooperation in health and technology sectors.
- Encourage partnerships for the production and distribution of medical equipment.
During the expo, Iranian knowledge-based companies engaged in business-to-business meetings with various Indonesian organizations, including:
- Ministry of Sport and Youth
- Association of Indonesian Private Hospitals (ARSSI)
- Major medical equipment distributors
- Local manufacturers
These negotiations primarily focused on exploring collaborative opportunities in the production, distribution, and market development of medical equipment. The Indonesia Hospital Expo showcased a wide range of medical, pharmaceutical, clinical, and laboratory equipment, offering a platform for industry participants to display innovations and network for potential investments.
In a related development, an Indonesian delegation led by Brian Yuliarto, the Minister of Higher Education, Research, and Technology, visited the technology park at the University of Tehran. This visit, which took place from May 18 to 20 during the second Ministerial Meeting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC-15) Dialogue Platform, was aimed at understanding the achievements of Iranian knowledge-based companies across various sectors, including engineering and biotechnology.
During this visit, Yuliarto met with Iran’s Science Minister Hossein Simaei-Sarraf. The two officials discussed strategies for fostering scientific and technological relations. Yuliarto expressed Indonesia’s eagerness to adopt Iran’s successful models in technology parks and emphasized the importance of collaborative partnerships in conducting joint research projects across different fields such as:
- Industry
- Medical equipment
- Vaccines
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Biotechnology
Highlighting Indonesia’s substantial population of over 280 million, Yuliarto pointed out the country’s notable achievements in agriculture, particularly in large-scale rice production. He extended an invitation to Iran to share in these agricultural experiences. The discussions also included ideas for exchanging professors and post-graduate students, as well as visits to scientific centers to further strengthen educational ties.
Simaei-Sarraf highlighted the potential for collaboration in AI and proposed developing a joint network to enhance technological advancement between the two nations. He reiterated Iran’s readiness to expand scientific ties and encouraged Indonesia to invest in the science and technology sectors. Establishing joint technology parks and providing necessary technical consultations were also topics of discussion.
According to the 18th edition of the Global Innovation Index (GII), Iran ranks second among Central and South Asian countries, maintaining its position for the past three years. The GII 2025 evaluates innovation performance across 139 economies and identifies the world’s top 100 innovation clusters. This report tracks global innovation trends through investment patterns, technological advancements, adoption rates, and socio-economic impacts.
In the latest GII report, Iran is ranked 70th among the 139 economies studied, a drop from its previous position of 64th in 2024. This data underscores the importance of international collaboration, such as the initiatives between Iran and Indonesia, to foster innovation and economic growth.
In conclusion, the establishment of the Iranian House of Innovation and Technology in Jakarta represents a strategic step towards enhancing economic ties and fostering collaboration in key sectors. The ongoing dialogues and partnerships between Iran and Indonesia are vital for leveraging each country’s strengths and promoting mutual growth in the global market.
