UNAIR NEWS “ Dian Wulandari, a graduate of the Communication Studies program at the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP), 51¶¯Âþ (UNAIR), class of 2002, has established a notable presence on the international stage. She has been appointed by the Center for International Institutional Affairs under the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs to represent Indonesia as Director of the ASEAN Digital Center (ADC) for the 2026“2028 term.
Long career leading ASEAN digital transformation
Wulandari began her career in public service as a civil servant at the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Kemkomdigi) in 2008. Over 18 years, she has held a range of strategic positions while continuing to strengthen her professional capabilities in serving the nation.
She later pursued a master™s degree at the University of Leeds in the United Kingdom, specializing in political communication. This academic training, combined with her extensive professional background, has equipped her for roles in international cooperation. œMy most extensive experience in international organizational collaboration has been within ASEAN, she said.
In her current role as Director of ADC, she is responsible for overseeing the implementation of digital transformation initiatives across ASEAN member states under the ASEAN Digital Senior Officials Meeting (ADGSOM) framework. Her role includes ensuring that agreed-upon technological policies and initiatives are translated into practical and measurable programs.
œThis position requires strong diplomatic skills to align the differing interests of ASEAN member countries. The aim of digital transformation is to provide inclusive benefits for society. ADC was established with the understanding that strong ideas must go beyond agreement and be effectively implemented, she stated.
Communication foundation and message for students
Her achievements are rooted in the values she developed during her academic years at FISIP. A background in communication equipped her with critical thinking skills, adaptability, and the ability to navigate competing interests in the public sphere.
She emphasized that building relationships and trust is essential in multilateral diplomacy. These competencies have played a key role in maintaining her credibility among international counterparts. œMy communication studies background has provided a foundation that continues to support me in my career, she explained.
In closing, she encouraged UNAIR students not to hesitate in starting their careers from modest beginnings. She noted that early experiences are essential in shaping discipline and professionalism.
She also stressed the importance of consistency and integrity in building a career, both in government and in international contexts. Strong integrity, she added, is crucial in establishing long-term trust among stakeholders. œUltimately, a career in public service and international cooperation is built on responsibility and integrity, Wulandari concluded.
Author: Muhammad Yasir D.
Editor: Yulia Rohmawati
