Meet Dewi, Your New Digital Diplomat
The Indian Embassy in Jakarta has launched an innovative public outreach initiative named Dewi. She is an artificial intelligence avatar, serving as the new digital face of the embassy. Her primary role is to act as a one-stop source for a wide array
of information, making it easier for both Indonesians and the Indian diaspora to connect with India. Dewi will provide regular updates on social media platforms, aiming to move beyond conventional communication methods and create a more interactive form of engagement. The avatar was introduced in mid-October, with the embassy encouraging followers to say 'Halo to Dewi' and stay connected for a stream of fresh content.
A Comprehensive Information Hub
Dewi is not just a digital persona; she is a comprehensive guide designed to answer a multitude of queries. Her mandate covers a broad spectrum of topics crucial to the India-Indonesia partnership. This includes sharing updates on Indian culture, festival information, and travel and tourism news. Furthermore, Dewi will provide details on educational opportunities and scholarships, business and investment prospects, and important consular service updates, such as visa and passport information. The goal is to make these key details more accessible, engaging, and relevant to the local audience in Indonesia.
A Name Rooted in Shared Heritage
The choice of the name 'Dewi' is a masterful stroke of cultural diplomacy. The name has deep cultural resonance in both India and Indonesia. It is derived from the Sanskrit word 'Devi,' meaning goddess, a term central to Hindu traditions. In Indonesia, 'Dewi' is a common female name that carries the same meaning, showcasing the centuries-old influence of Sanskrit on the Indonesian language and culture. The launch was intentionally timed to coincide with the start of Navaratri and Durga Puja, festivals that celebrate the goddess. This thoughtful connection highlights the shared cultural heritage between the two nations, turning the AI avatar into a symbol of this bond.
Strengthening Ties with Digital Outreach
The introduction of Dewi is a strategic move within India's broader 'Act East' policy, which aims to bolster relations with nations in Southeast Asia. By leveraging AI, the embassy is adopting emerging technologies to improve public service delivery and outreach, a vision championed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This initiative specifically targets the large Indian community in Indonesia—comprising approximately 130,000 Persons of Indian Origin and 15,000 Non-Resident Indians—as well as Indonesians interested in India. The avatar will communicate in both English and Bahasa Indonesia, ensuring wide accessibility and fostering a deeper connection between the people of both countries.
