Knowledge exchange on cross-border transfer of personal data

Cross-border transfer of personal data has been one of the most challenging aspects of data protection. On one hand, transfer of personal data can enable companies to provide innovative, cutting-edge services and pave the way for emerging technologies. However, it also poses issues due to varying legal standards, security risks and different enforcements from one country to another. If data is transferred to a region with differing laws, individuals could lose control over personal information and potentially be exposed to misuse or breaches. Hence, it is important to promote common policy frameworks and compatible regulations through common understanding towards each countries’ regulations.

The Exchange was opened by Mrs. Celine Becker, Head of the Secretariat of the Indonesian – German Digital Dialogue, who highlighted the importance of learning from each other’s policy frameworks and best practices to foster mutual understanding between Indonesia and Germany. Mr. Ichwan Nasution, Head of the Center for International Affairs of MCI, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the role of dialogue and collaboration in building partnerships on the topic. Adding to this, Mr. Marc Lendermann from the BMDV highlighted the Indonesian – German Digital Dialogue as a key platform for strengthening cooperation on digitalisation between the two nations.

Exchange of Policy Framework and Lessons Learned

The exchange was led by Mr. Aries Kusdaryono, Director of Information Application Governance of MCI, Ms. Anne Schilmöller, Policy Officer for International Data Flows and Protection of the Directorate General for Justice and Consumer of the European Commission and Ms. Lisa-Marie Lange, Hessen’s Deputy Data Protection Commissioner. Mr. Aries Kusdaryono provided knowledge on the development of data protection policy frameworks and the government's goal towards securing cross-border transfer of personal data. Ms. Anne Schilmöller and Ms. Lisa-Marie Lange provided insights into the policy framework on the European Union level and country level in Germany respectively, which included discussions on EU GDPR, data adequacy, appropriate data safeguards and the practical implications.

The Exchange marked another significant step in the Indonesian – German cooperation on the field of data protection and strengthening both nations commitment in fostering common understanding to build a secure and resilient digital environment.