Indonesia Hacker House Exposes the Development, Potential and Challenges of Web3 Development in Indonesia

Discussing this, the Indonesian blockchain developer community BlockDevId together with Manta Network and Universitas Pembangunan Jaya Bintaro held the Indonesia Hacker House event on February 9-18, 2025.   

Web3 is the third generation of web technology that focuses on decentralization, security, and user privacy. This technology aims to overcome various shortcomings that exist in Web 2.0, such as centralized control and vulnerability to cyber attacks.  

BlockDevId Founder and INDODAX CTO William Sutanto said it is important to empower local developers so that the implementation of Web3 can run well in Indonesia.  

“As the Founder of BlockDevId, I see this Indonesia Hacker House as an important platform to encourage the adoption and development of blockchain technology in Indonesia. Our main focus is to empower local developers with the knowledge and skills needed to build innovative solutions on top of blockchain,” he said.   

William said that Indonesians have been increasingly interested in Web3. Local developers also have talents that can penetrate the international level.  

“Interest continues to grow. There are also several Web3 projects from Indonesia that have won global hackathons abroad. This is a clear indication that Indonesia has young talents who are ready to jump into the Web3 world,” he explained.   

William commented that Indonesia has regulations that continue to be made positively. OJK as the regulator overseeing the crypto industry has also opened a Regulatory Sandbox program where Web3 projects can also participate in it.  

“Unclear regulations can indeed be an obstacle. However, I believe the government is increasingly realizing the great potential of this industry. It can be seen from the government's active involvement in providing education to the public. In addition, OJK's Regulatory Sandbox program is available to oversee web3 projects in Indonesia.”  

Meanwhile, Shubham, Head of Ecosystem Manta Network said that one way to attract more developers to the Web3 industry is to increase education at the university level. Then, it also provides an onboarding program for Web2 developers so that they can transition to Web3.   

“In addition, organizing hackathons, workshops, and mentorship with industry players can also help increase developers' interest and understanding of blockchain technology. Although it takes time, with dedication and support from various parties, the adoption of Web3 among developers can grow more widely,” he said.   

Dr. Ida Nurhaida, S.T., M.T. Head Departement of Informatics, Universitas Pembangunan Jaya revealed, Indonesia Hacker House is not just an event. But a strategic initiative designed to empower, inspire, and form a solid Web3 developer ecosystem in Indonesia.   

“As one of the flagship programs involving Universitas Pembangunan Jaya Informatics Study Program, this event reflects our commitment in advancing technology-based education that is relevant to future needs.”  

Through an innovative curriculum, collaboration with renowned industry partners such as BlockDevId and Manta Network, and practice-based learning facilities, UPJ Informatics continues to transform into a center of excellence in technology education in Indonesia. 

“We believe blockchain technology and Web3 are the future. By presenting Indonesia Hacker House, we not only support the development of young Indonesian talents but also strengthen the role of UPJ Informatics Study Program as a driving force in creating digital solutions that have a positive impact on society,” he said.