Tokyo, 21 November 2025: The ERIA School of Government (So G), in collaboration with Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI), conducted the ninth round of the Executive Dialogue on Semiconductor Policy with Sakana AI in Tokyo, Japan, focusing on the evolving landscape of the artificial intelligence sector.

The dialogue brought together representatives from Indonesia, including H.E. Nezar Patria, Vice Minister of Communications and Digital Affairs, and Mr Sofyari Rahman, Industry Attaché at the Embassy of Indonesia in Tokyo. Sakana AI was represented by Mr Ren Ito, Co-Founder and COO, and Mr Junya Ishii, Project Manager and Geopolitical Analyst on the Applied Team.

Discussions examined major shifts in AI development, including the transition from AI model-centric approaches toward the establishment of robust backbone AI infrastructure. Participants also addressed emerging strategies for local-language AI models, the relevance of sovereign AI for Indonesia, and talent development needs within the AI ecosystem.

The session underscored the importance of sovereign AI aligned with local values and emphasised collaboration between government and industry partners to support AI ecosystem development and broader industrial policy co-operation. This round further reinforces the ERIA So G’s commitment to strengthening regional policy co-operation and advancing shared strategic priorities.