Biznet Nusantara Cable System-1 (BNCS-1)

Overview

The Biznet Nusantara Cable System-1 (BNCS-1) is a domestic submarine cable system exclusively serving Indonesia. Spanning a total length of 105 kilometers, it connects four key landing points across the western part of the Indonesian archipelago. Designed to address local connectivity needs, BNCS-1 enhances communication infrastructure within the region. The system is owned and operated by Biznet, a private Indonesian telecommunications company specializing in internet services, cable television, and data center solutions. BNCS-1 became operational in 2024, further strengthening Indonesia’s extensive submarine cable network.

As a short-haul cable system, BNCS-1 plays a critical role in improving intra-island connectivity, complementing Indonesia’s broader telecommunications network. It is a vital part of the country’s digital infrastructure, providing reliable and efficient data transmission between its four landing points. Unlike longer international systems, BNCS-1 is tailored to meet the specific needs of local communities and businesses, ensuring seamless communication within the region.

Route and Landings

BNCS-1 connects four landing points within Indonesia: Anyer, Kalianda, Muntok, and Sungsang. These locations are strategically chosen to serve key areas in western Indonesia, linking the islands of Java and Sumatra. Anyer, located in Banten Province on the western tip of Java, is a historically significant coastal town and a gateway to the Sunda Strait. Kalianda, situated on the southern coast of Sumatra, is a growing urban center and an important regional hub. Muntok, on Bangka Island, is a port town with historical and economic significance, while Sungsang, in South Sumatra, is a key fishing and trading community.

The cable’s route across the Sunda Strait and surrounding waters highlights its role in bridging critical points within Indonesia’s vast archipelago. By connecting these four landing points, BNCS-1 facilitates efficient communication and data exchange across regions that are otherwise separated by complex waterways and islands. This localized connectivity is essential for supporting economic development, social interaction, and digital inclusion in these areas.

Ownership and History

BNCS-1 is fully owned by Biznet, a prominent Indonesian telecommunications provider. Biznet has a strong presence in Indonesia, offering a range of services including high-speed internet, cable television, and data center solutions. The company’s investment in BNCS-1 reflects its commitment to enhancing domestic connectivity and addressing the growing demand for reliable digital infrastructure within the country.

The cable system became ready for service in 2024, marking a significant addition to Indonesia’s telecommunications landscape. Its development aligns with Indonesia’s broader efforts to expand and modernize its digital infrastructure, particularly in underserved and geographically challenging areas. By focusing on domestic connectivity, BNCS-1 complements Biznet’s existing services and reinforces its role as a key player in Indonesia’s telecommunications sector.

What Our Measurements Show

Our monitoring indicates that BNCS-1 is performing as expected for a short-haul domestic submarine cable system. Its 105-kilometer length places it among the shortest cables serving Indonesia, yet it fulfills a crucial role in linking the four landing points it connects. The cable’s localized scope ensures low latency and high reliability, which are essential for supporting the needs of businesses, residents, and institutions in the connected regions.

Compared to Indonesia’s other submarine cables, which average 2,591 kilometers in length, BNCS-1 is a distinctly short system. This makes it well-suited for its purpose as an intra-island connector, rather than a long-distance or international link. Its performance underscores the importance of tailored solutions in addressing the unique geographical and infrastructural challenges of an archipelagic nation like Indonesia. By bridging key locations in western Indonesia, BNCS-1 contributes to the broader goal of achieving comprehensive digital connectivity across the country.