ratified

Jakarta, VIVA – The ratification of the Law on Indonesia’s International Financial Center (Pusat Finansial Internasional Indonesia – PFII) marks a transformative step initiated by the President to bolster Indonesia’s competitiveness in the fierce global race for capital, especially amidst the shifting dynamics of the world economy. Mukhamad Misbakhun, Chairman of Commission XI of the House of Representatives (DPR) RI, articulated this assessment to reporters on Friday, July 24, 2026, emphasizing the profound implications of this new legislative framework for the nation’s economic future.

Misbakhun clarified that the PFII Law transcends the mere establishment of a special economic zone or the provision of investment incentives. Instead, it is designed to forge a new institutional foundation, meticulously crafted to position Indonesia as a premier destination for international capital. This strategic pivot is seen as indispensable for propelling Indonesia towards its ambitious development goals, including the "Golden Indonesia 2045" vision, which aims for the nation to be among the world’s top five economies.

"The PFII is a truly transformative initiative. It represents a commendable step taken by the President to attract global capital into Indonesia. We can no longer solely rely on domestic financing sources if we aspire to leapfrog into the ranks of developed nations," Misbakhun stated, underscoring the urgency and strategic imperative behind the new law. He highlighted that the global competition among nations to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) and portfolio investment has intensified dramatically. Consequently, Indonesia requires robust institutional instruments capable of providing unequivocal legal certainty, regulatory efficiency, and an unparalleled ease of doing business. These attributes are crucial for Indonesia to effectively contend with established international financial centers across Asia and beyond.

Misbakhun further elaborated that the enactment of the PFII Law is an integral component of a broader national economic transformation agenda. This agenda strategically positions the financial services sector as a pivotal new engine for growth, diversifying the economy beyond its traditional reliance on commodities. For too long, despite possessing strong economic fundamentals, Indonesia has struggled to fully leverage its inherent potential to become a compelling magnet for international investment flows. The PFII Law seeks to bridge this gap, unlocking new avenues for growth and development.

"If we are serious about Indonesia ascending to a higher class of nations, then we must construct institutions that also operate at a higher echelon. The PFII is one such instrument designed to meet this formidable challenge," Misbakhun asserted, linking the legislative reform directly to the nation’s overarching aspirations. The existence of the PFII is expected to broaden the sources of development financing, deepen domestic financial markets, and significantly enhance Indonesia’s standing within the intricate global investment network.

Beyond the sheer volume of capital inflow, Misbakhun stressed that the true efficacy of the PFII Law would be measured by its comprehensive economic impact. This includes the creation of high-quality employment opportunities, the fostering of a modern and sophisticated financial services industry, the acceleration of technology and knowledge transfer, and a substantial increase in value-added economic activities across the domestic landscape. "What we aim to build is not merely a flow of capital, but an entirely new economic ecosystem capable of generating profound multiplier effects for the national economy," he concluded.

The Vision Behind PFII: Indonesia’s Economic Transformation

Indonesia’s ambition to establish a world-class international financial center is not a recent phenomenon. Discussions have intermittently surfaced over the past two decades, often inspired by the success stories of regional peers like Singapore, Hong Kong, and more recently, Dubai and Kuala Lumpur. The current initiative, however, is notable for its comprehensive legislative backing and presidential endorsement, signaling a decisive shift in political will.

The PFII Law aligns with President Joko Widodo’s long-term vision of transforming Indonesia into a developed, high-income nation by 2045, coinciding with its centennial independence. This vision, known as "Golden Indonesia 2045," necessitates robust economic growth, estimated at an average of 6-7% annually. Achieving this requires massive investments in infrastructure, human capital, and advanced industries. Domestic savings alone, while growing, are insufficient to meet this colossal funding requirement, making the attraction of global capital an absolute necessity.

The transformation agenda seeks to move Indonesia away from a resource-dependent economy towards one driven by manufacturing, digital innovation, and high-value services. The financial sector, as the circulatory system of the economy, is identified as a critical enabler for this structural shift. A vibrant and internationally connected financial center can provide the sophisticated financing mechanisms, risk management tools, and advisory services required by a modern, diversified economy.

Chronology of the PFII Initiative

While the July 24, 2026 statement from Misbakhun marks a key public commentary following its enactment, the journey to the PFII Law has been a multi-year endeavor:

• Early 2020s: Preliminary studies and discussions within government circles and expert groups intensified, identifying the need for a dedicated legal framework to attract international finance. These discussions often coincided with broader efforts to simplify investment regulations, such as the Omnibus Law on Job Creation.
• 2023-2024: The concept gained significant traction, with presidential directives emphasizing the creation of a conducive environment for global capital. Inter-ministerial task forces were established, involving the Ministry of Finance, Bank Indonesia, the Financial Services Authority (OJK), and the National Development Planning Agency (Bappenas).
• Late 2024: A draft bill for the PFII was formally introduced by the government to the DPR. The drafting process involved extensive consultations with various stakeholders, including financial industry players, legal experts, and international advisors.
• 2025: The DPR, particularly Commission XI, undertook rigorous deliberation of the bill. This phase involved public hearings, expert testimonies, and extensive committee meetings to refine the provisions, ensuring alignment with international best practices while safeguarding national interests. Key debates focused on incentives, regulatory autonomy, and oversight mechanisms.
• Early 2026: The PFII bill successfully navigated the legislative process, receiving approval from both the DPR and the President, leading to its official enactment into law. The specific date of enactment would have preceded Misbakhun’s statement, indicating that the law was already in force by July 24, 2026.
• Post-Enactment (July 24, 2026 onwards): The focus shifts to the development of detailed implementing regulations (Peraturan Pemerintah/PP, Peraturan Menteri/Permen, Peraturan OJK/POJK, Peraturan BI/PBI). This crucial phase will determine the practical effectiveness and attractiveness of the PFII.

The Global Financial Landscape and Indonesia’s Position

The global financial landscape is characterized by intense competition for capital. According to UNCTAD’s World Investment Report, global FDI flows have shown volatility in recent years but remain a critical source of development finance. In 2023, global FDI stood at approximately $1.37 trillion, with developing economies continuing to be major recipients. However, attracting a larger share requires more than just market size; it demands a robust, predictable, and investor-friendly ecosystem.

Indonesia’s current share of global FDI, while significant for Southeast Asia, has room for substantial growth. In 2023, Indonesia attracted around $47 billion in FDI, primarily directed towards manufacturing, mining, and services. While impressive, this figure pales in comparison to the capital flowing into established financial hubs. The PFII aims to tap into new streams of capital, particularly those seeking sophisticated financial services, asset management, and fintech opportunities.

Regional financial centers such as Singapore, Hong Kong, and Dubai have thrived by offering:

• Strong Rule of Law and Legal Certainty: Independent judiciary, clear commercial laws.
• Favorable Tax Regimes: Low corporate and personal income taxes, often with incentives for specific activities.
• Efficient Regulatory Environments: Streamlined licensing, clear compliance pathways, and responsive regulators.
• Skilled Talent Pool: Access to a diverse, well-educated, and experienced workforce.
• World-Class Infrastructure: Connectivity, technology, and quality of life.
• Political Stability: A predictable and stable operating environment.

The PFII is designed to incorporate these best practices, learning from both successes and challenges faced by its competitors. It seeks to differentiate itself by leveraging Indonesia’s immense domestic market, its strategic geopolitical position, and its growing importance in the global supply chain.

Key Features and Mechanisms of the PFII Law (Inferred)

Based on global best practices for International Financial Centers, the PFII Law is likely to establish a framework that includes:

1. Special Economic Zone (SEZ) or Designated Area Status: The PFII will likely operate within a geographically defined area, potentially in major cities like Jakarta, with special legal and regulatory provisions. This allows for a ring-fenced environment separate from broader national regulations where necessary.
2. Streamlined and Relaxed Regulatory Framework:
   • Licensing: Simplified and expedited licensing processes for financial institutions, investment funds, and other related service providers.
   • Foreign Ownership: Potentially allowing higher or full foreign ownership in financial entities operating within the PFII, compared to general national limits.
   • Currency Convertibility: Full and free convertibility of major foreign currencies for transactions within the PFII.
3. Attractive Tax Incentives:
   • Corporate Income Tax (CIT): Reduced CIT rates or tax holidays for PFII-registered entities, particularly for specific high-value activities (e.g., asset management, fintech, green finance).
   • Personal Income Tax (PIT): Incentives for highly skilled expatriate professionals working in the PFII, to attract top global talent.
   • Withholding Tax (WHT): Reduced or exempted WHT on interest, dividends, and royalties flowing in and out of the PFII.
   • Stamp Duty and Capital Gains Tax: Potential exemptions or reductions on certain financial transactions.
4. Legal Certainty and Dispute Resolution:
   • International Arbitration: Allowing for international arbitration as the primary mechanism for commercial dispute resolution, providing greater comfort to foreign investors.
   • English Law or Hybrid Legal System: Possible adoption of internationally recognized legal principles for commercial contracts within the PFII, or at least a clear framework for applying international best practices.
5. Robust Governance and Oversight:
   • Dedicated PFII Authority: The establishment of a new, autonomous authority or a specialized unit within existing regulators (OJK, Bank Indonesia) to oversee the PFII, ensuring efficient decision-making and a single point of contact for investors.
   • Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter-Terrorism Financing (CTF): Strict adherence to international AML/CTF standards (FATF recommendations) to maintain integrity and prevent illicit financial flows.
6. Talent Development and Immigration Facilitation:
   • Special Visa and Work Permit Regimes: Expedited and flexible immigration procedures for highly skilled foreign professionals and their families.
   • Talent Development Programs: Initiatives to upskill the local workforce in finance, technology, and related fields to create a sustainable talent pipeline.
7. Digital and Physical Infrastructure: Investment in state-of-the-art digital infrastructure (high-speed connectivity, data centers) and premium physical infrastructure (office spaces, residential areas, international schools) to create a world-class living and working environment.
8. Focus on Niche Markets: Potentially emphasizing areas where Indonesia has a natural advantage or strong growth potential, such as Islamic finance, green finance, or fintech.

Anticipated Benefits and Multiplier Effects

The PFII is poised to deliver a multitude of benefits across various economic fronts:

• Diversified Funding Sources: Beyond traditional bank loans and bond markets, the PFII can attract foreign direct investment into infrastructure projects, venture capital for startups, and private equity for growing enterprises, broadening Indonesia’s capital base.
• Deeper Financial Markets: Increased participation from international players will enhance liquidity, introduce new financial products and services, and improve price discovery in Indonesia’s capital markets, making them more sophisticated and resilient.
• High-Quality Job Creation: The establishment of international financial institutions, asset management firms, fintech companies, and related professional services will generate demand for highly skilled professionals in finance, law, accounting, technology, and compliance. This will help address underemployment among educated youth.
• Technology and Knowledge Transfer: Foreign financial institutions bring with them advanced technologies, best practices in risk management, compliance, and product innovation. This direct transfer of knowledge and expertise will elevate the standards of Indonesia’s domestic financial sector.
• Development of Related Industries: The growth of the PFII will stimulate demand for supporting services, including legal advisory, auditing, consulting, real estate, hospitality, and education, creating a robust ecosystem.
• Enhanced Global Position: A successful PFII will elevate Indonesia’s profile on the international stage, improving its ease of doing business rankings and attracting further non-financial investments.
• Infrastructure Development: The influx of capital can be channeled into critical infrastructure projects, from transportation networks to renewable energy initiatives, supporting long-term economic growth.
• Strengthening Rupiah Stability: Increased foreign exchange inflows from investments and financial activities within the PFII can contribute to the stability of the Indonesian Rupiah.

Statements from Other Stakeholders

While Misbakhun’s statement provides a legislative perspective, the PFII Law’s importance is echoed by other key stakeholders:

• Ministry of Finance: Officials have likely emphasized the fiscal benefits, including potential new tax revenues from increased economic activity (even with incentives), and the broader economic stimulus. They would also highlight the PFII’s role in securing long-term, sustainable funding for national development projects.
• Bank Indonesia (BI): The central bank would likely focus on the PFII’s impact on financial stability, capital flow management, and the deepening of money and foreign exchange markets. BI’s role in macroprudential oversight and ensuring the PFII integrates smoothly with the broader financial system would be paramount.
• Financial Services Authority (OJK): As the primary financial regulator, OJK would stress its commitment to robust, yet efficient, regulatory oversight within the PFII. This would include ensuring investor protection, market integrity, and adherence to international prudential standards to prevent systemic risks.
• Business Community (e.g., KADIN, APINDO): Representatives from the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KADIN) and the Indonesian Employers Association (APINDO) would likely welcome the law as a significant boost to the investment climate. Their statements would likely underscore the importance of consistent implementation, minimal bureaucracy, and a level playing field for both domestic and international players. They would also advocate for policies that foster local participation and benefit small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
• Economists and Analysts: While generally optimistic about the potential, economists would offer a more nuanced view, emphasizing that success hinges on effective implementation. They would likely point to the fierce competition and the need for Indonesia to offer truly unique advantages, beyond just incentives, such as a stable political environment, a highly skilled workforce, and an uncompromising commitment to the rule of law.

Challenges and Implementation Roadblocks

Despite the ambitious vision, the successful realization of the PFII faces several significant challenges:

1. Regulatory Consistency and Predictability: The most critical factor for investors is regulatory stability. Any changes or inconsistencies in the implementing regulations or their enforcement could deter potential participants. The government must ensure a clear, transparent, and unwavering regulatory environment.
2. Attracting Top-Tier Talent: Competing with established hubs for skilled financial professionals, both local and international, will be a major hurdle. This requires not only attractive compensation packages but also a high quality of life, international-standard education, and a cosmopolitan environment.
3. Infrastructure Development: While Indonesia has made strides in infrastructure, the specific demands of a world-class financial center – including highly reliable digital connectivity, secure data centers, and efficient transportation – require continuous investment and maintenance.
4. Combating Illicit Financial Flows: Maintaining the integrity of the financial center by rigorously combating money laundering, terrorism financing, and other illicit activities is paramount. Any perception of lax oversight could severely damage its reputation and deter legitimate investors.
5. Competition from Established Hubs: Singapore, Hong Kong, and Dubai have decades of experience and deeply entrenched ecosystems. Indonesia must offer a compelling value proposition that goes beyond mere incentives, potentially focusing on specific niches like Islamic finance, green finance, or digital finance tailored to its unique market dynamics.
6. Political Will and Long-Term Commitment: The success of such a long-term project depends on sustained political commitment across different administrations and legislative cycles, ensuring that the PFII remains a national priority.
7. Harmonization with Existing Laws: Integrating the PFII’s special provisions with Indonesia’s existing complex legal framework will require careful consideration to avoid conflicts and ensure seamless operation.

As Misbakhun aptly highlighted, the ultimate success of the PFII Law will depend on the government’s consistency in crafting and enforcing credible, simple, and certainty-providing implementing regulations, all while upholding the highest principles of good governance. This legislative endeavor marks a bold strategic move by Indonesia to carve out a larger share of the global capital pie, signaling its intent to become a pivotal player in the international financial arena and accelerate its journey towards becoming a developed nation.