The use of telecommunications and broadcasting services have been an integral part of the modern world for over a century now, yet the concept of radio-frequency spectrums (“
Spectrums”) is generally little understand. Spectrums encompass various frequencies of electromagnetic radiation which are capable of transferring energy without any form of physical interconnectivity.
[1] Moreover, Spectrums are an inherent part of the natural world and permeate outer space and indeed the entire universe.
[2] Since Spectrums freely propagate through air, the fundamental principle adopted by nations is that they should be controlled by the state, as traditionally states have controlled the land and air above their territories.
[3] In Indonesia, communications devices are connected to providers through the medium of Spectrums which lie within the 3 kHz – 3000 GHz ranges.
The state also controls Spectrums due to the fact that they are considered to be a limited resource. Furthermore, this state control is implemented in order to avoid any misuse or irresponsible utilization of Spectrums which could result in harmful radio interference between organizers. This edition of Indonesian Law Digest will elaborate upon the basic provisions of Spectrum utilization set forth by the government and will specifically address:
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