Two distinct domains of discussion exist: societal revolution and industrial revolution. The first pertains to how humans adapt to survive, from hunting to the information era and the emergence of a smart society. The second concerns how goods are produced by humans, spanning mechanization, mass production, automation, and cyber production. However, both ultimately converge on a single condition where humans utilize technology in all aspects of their lives.
Specifically, in the economic sphere, human transformation through the use of technology has given rise to a new economic sector: the digital economy. This is marked by the proliferation of startups that have revolutionized human transactions, ranging from e-commerce, logistics, transportation, travel agencies, education, payments, investments, banking, and capital markets, to healthcare services. It is undeniable that the Industrial Revolution 4.0 is advancing exponentially and significantly impacting human life. Therefore, Indonesia's digital economic ecosystem must remain optimistic in facing these changes.
As stated by the Chairperson of Indonesia’s Presidential Advisory Council, Prof. Dr. Sri Adiningsih, SE., M.Sc., who is also a Professor at the Faculty of Economics and Business, UGM, in a public lecture at the Faculty of Economics and Islamic Business (FEBI) UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta on October 3, 2019. The event was attended by the Dean of FEBI, Dr. H. Syafiq Mahmadah Hanafi, M.Ag., Vice Deans I and III of FEBI, heads of departments, lecturers, and students of FEBI UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta.
Sri Adiningsih added that to face the Industrial Revolution 4.0, a productive and creative workforce is essential. Students, in this regard, are a crucial instrument in optimistically preparing the human resources of the future. Undoubtedly, universities are also expected to cultivate digital-based knowledge. By accessing vast amounts of information, students can develop a broad mindset, thereby providing a strong foundation for transitioning towards society 5.0 —the era of a super smart society.
The public lecture, moderated by Achmad Nurdany, SEI., SE., MEK., focused on a widely discussed topic: the Digital Economy, a new paradigm for Indonesia's economy. According to Sri Adiningsih, Indonesia's digital economic ecosystem is optimistic about continuing to grow rapidly. This is supported by infrastructure development systems, including an electrification ratio exceeding 90 percent, internet penetration surpassing 50 percent, the Palapa Ring project, supportive regulations, and more. The material presented during the lecture received positive feedback and enthusiastic responses from the attendees, including both students and lecturers of FEBI UIN Sunan Kalijaga.