Jakarta. Unicorn startup Tokopedia, in collaboration with the University of Indonesia, opened a development center for artificial intelligence research in Jakarta on Thursday. 

The Tokopedia-UI AI Center of Excellence deploys Nvidia DGX-1 deep-learning servers and workstations produced by California-based technology company Nvidia. 

Tokopedia chief executive William Tanuwijaya expressed hope that the center will help academics design AI-based solutions, ranging from demand prediction to smart warehouses and smart logistics, for Indonesian businesses. 

"At Tokopedia, we believe technology should be an enabler that empowers people and is not a disruptor," William said in a statement. 

Recent research by Microsoft and the International Data Corporation showed that only one in seven businesses in Indonesia currently uses AI in their operations. But rapid adoption of the technology should accelerate the pace of innovation and productivity of employees in the next three years, the study projected.

Muhammad Anis, rector of the University of Indonesia, said he hoped the center would help graduates from the university equip themselves with the skills needed to compete globally.

"This collaboration with high-level technology is expected to stimulate the spirit of innovation among UI academics to produce research that can help advance the Indonesian economy to the next level," he said.