The rapid development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation has transformed the data center industry. Processes that once relied heavily on human labor can now be executed automatically with higher accuracy and efficiency. Yet, this progress raises an important question: Will humans be replaced by machines?
In the Nusantara Podcast, presented by Nusantara Data Center Academy (NDCA) and hosted by Sari Oktaviani, Adi Heru Satrio P., Vice President of IT System Operation, Strategic Information Technology Group at Bank BCA, discusses in depth how collaboration between humans and AI can create operational efficiency without eliminating the human role entirely.
AI Adoption and Automation Transformation
Steps and Considerations in Implementing Automation
In the era of Industry 4.0 and 5.0, AI serves as the backbone of digital transformation.
According to Adi Heru, adopting AI in data centers enables:
- Energy savings through intelligent cooling management systems.
- Automation of repetitive tasks to reduce human workload.
- Improved speed, consistency, and reliability in operations.
However, not every process should be fully automated. Human factors remain essential for decision-making and risk management.
“Humans have emotion and intuition, while AI offers accuracy and consistency. These two must go hand in hand.” — Adi Heru Satrio P.
Positive Collaboration Between Humans and Machines
In the Industry 5.0 era, the focus shifts from pure efficiency to human–technology integration.
AI supports humans in managing large-scale data, while humans continue to lead in strategic decision-making.
This collaboration drives:
- Higher productivity without losing creativity.
- Efficient workflows with controlled error risks.
- Continuous learning through feedback loops — similar to how Google Assistant evolves.
To minimize risks, AI systems must include a manual override feature, allowing human intervention when automation fails.
Skills for the Future Workforce
Technological progress demands reskilling and upskilling.
For instance, BCA has implemented several human resource development programs, such as:
- Continuous internal and external training.
- Coaching sessions to unlock individual potential.
- Performance measurement and kaizen (continuous improvement).
Adi Heru emphasizes that knowledge today doesn’t come only from classrooms — but also from YouTube, online communities, and professional forums.
“Education isn’t limited to classrooms. Anyone can learn from anywhere, as long as they have the will to grow.”
Talent Challenges and Brain Drain in Indonesia
One major challenge in the age of automation is the lack of AI and data center experts.
The brain drain phenomenon — where young Indonesian talents prefer working abroad, such as in Singapore — remains a pressing issue.
Suggested solutions include:
- Government policies and incentives to attract and retain local talent.
- Universities updating curricula to align with digital industry needs.
- Private companies strengthening employer branding and creating appealing workplaces for young professionals.
Collaboration among government, academia, and private sectors is key to building a strong, globally competitive digital ecosystem in Indonesia.
Risks and Ethics in Human–AI Collaboration
As AI grows more intelligent, risks also increase.
Responsible collaboration must consider:
- Potential data bias in AI systems.
- Automated decision-making errors.
- The need for algorithm transparency and human oversight.
Therefore, organizations must implement manual control systems (backdoor mechanisms) to ensure human supervision throughout automation processes.
Preparing the Next Generation
For Millennials and Gen Z, opportunities in AI and data center fields are wide open.
However, they must combine technical skills (hard skills) and soft skills, including:
- Critical thinking and problem-solving.
- Adaptability to technological changes.
- Foundational understanding of AI, machine learning, and data analysis.
“The academic world and the professional world are different,” Adi Heru said. “But they can complement each other when people are willing to learn and adapt.”
Key Takeaway
“We can’t resist change — what we can do is learn and adapt.” — Adi Heru Satrio P.
Automation is not a threat but an opportunity.
AI is not here to replace humans, but to empower them to become more productive, efficient, and creative. The success of automation in data center operations relies on synergy between technology, people, and business strategy.
Conclusion
AI has become a key pillar in driving data center efficiency worldwide — including within Indonesia’s financial sector.
However, the future of this industry will not be defined solely by advanced technology, but by humanity’s ability to adapt, learn, and collaborate.
With a balanced approach between innovation and human values, Indonesia has the potential to become Southeast Asia’s digital talent hub in the Industry 5.0 era.
For more details, listen directly to the podcast on YouTube Nusantara Academy and don’t forget to register for training by contacting https://wa.me/6285176950083
