Indonesia on Monday launched a USD-540-million telecommunication satellite from the US as part of efforts to connect remote areas of the Southeast Asian archipelago to high-speed internet.

"This first Indonesian satellite aims to distribute internet access evenly, particularly for purposes of education, medical, public services, people, and military and the police force," Acting Communications Minister Mahfud MD told the press.

Jakarta is partnering with Elon Musk's rocket company SpaceX for the initiative that aims to provide "even internet coverage" across the nation, added the minister.

Source: Kuwait News Agency