In 2011, GlobeAsia—now rebranded as the Jakarta Globe—released its definitive ranking of the 150 wealthiest Indonesians. This landmark list showcased the remarkable growth of Indonesia’s business elite and highlighted the individuals whose vision, persistence, and leadership have shaped the nation’s economy. Below is a refined look at the top 50 names, beginning with the foremost five.
1. Eka Tjipta Widjaja
Net worth: $12 billion
Founder of Sinar Mas Group, Eka Tjipta Widjaja transformed humble beginnings into one of Indonesia’s largest conglomerates. With ventures in plantations, pulp and paper, mining, property, and banking, his legacy remains one of the most powerful business dynasties in the country.
2. Budi Hartono & Michael Hartono
Net worth: $11.5 billion
Better known as the Hartono brothers, they built their fortune through Djarum, Indonesia’s iconic cigarette brand, while also becoming major shareholders in Bank Central Asia. Their investments in electronics and banking solidify them as pillars of Indonesian industry.
3. Anthony Salim
Net worth: $8 billion
At the helm of the Salim Group and First Pacific, Anthony Salim oversees a vast empire spanning food, telecommunications, plantations, and industry. His strategic foresight has ensured the Salim family’s prominence in Indonesia’s corporate world.
4. Martua Sitorus
Net worth: $4 billion
Co-founder of Wilmar International, Martua Sitorus is a central figure in the global agribusiness sector. His success in plantations and commodities has placed him among Southeast Asia’s most respected entrepreneurs.
5. Aburizal Bakrie
Net worth: $3.8 billion
Business tycoon and political leader, Aburizal Bakrie heads the Bakrie Group, with diverse interests in coal mining, plantations, infrastructure, and property. His influence extends beyond business, leaving a strong imprint on national policy and development.
6. Dato Low Tuck Kwong
Net worth: $3.7 billion
As founder of Bayan Resources, Dato Low Tuck Kwong has become a driving force in Indonesia’s coal industry. His expertise and strategic approach established Bayan as one of the country’s top energy companies.
7. Putra Sampoerna
Net worth: $2.5 billion
Best known for leading Sampoerna Strategic, Putra Sampoerna expanded family investments into plantations and digital ventures. The Sampoerna name, long tied to tobacco, continues to shape Indonesian enterprise.
8. Sukanto Tanoto
Net worth: $2 billion
Head of Royal Golden Eagle, Sukanto Tanoto built a global presence in pulp and paper, plantations, and energy. His dedication to sustainable practices has brought him recognition both locally and internationally.
9. Peter Sondakh
Net worth: $1.9 billion
As the leader of Rajawali Group, Peter Sondakh commands diversified investments and mining ventures. Known for his sharp business instincts, he stands as a prominent name in the Indonesian investment community.
10. Susilo Wonowidjojo
Net worth: $1.9 billion
The force behind Gudang Garam, one of Indonesia’s largest cigarette producers, Susilo Wonowidjojo has guided the company toward consistent growth and market dominance.
Other Notable Figures in the Top 50
From coal magnates to consumer goods pioneers, this elite list reflects Indonesia’s diverse business landscape.
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Samin Tan ($1.8B) – Mining tycoon behind Borneo Lumbung Energy and Metals.
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Theodore P. Rachmat ($1.7B) – Founder of Triputra Group, influential in coal, plantations, and investments.
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Kiki Barki ($1.6B) – Leader of Tanito Harum Group in coal mining.
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William Katuari ($1.45B) – Chairman of Wings Group, known for consumer goods and chemicals.
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Mochtar Riady ($1.3B) – Founder of Lippo Group, spanning finance, property, retail, and healthcare.
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Edwin Soeryadjaya ($1.25B) – Prominent in coal mining and investments via Adaro and Saratoga Capital.
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Tahir ($1.15B) – At the helm of Mayapada Banking Group, with ventures in retail, property, and finance.
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Sri Prakash Lohia ($1.15B) – Founder of Indorama, a global leader in textiles and petrochemicals.
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The Thohir family ($1.1B) – Influential in coal mining through Adaro Energy and Trinugraha.
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Murdaya Poo & Siti Hartati Murdaya ($1.1B) – Leading Central Cipta Murdaya in property, energy, and trade.
The list continues with Prajogo Pangestu ($1.05B) of Barito Pacific, Chairul Tanjung ($900M) of CT Corp, Ciputra ($790M) the property icon, Boenjamin Setiawan ($770M) of Kalbe Farma, and Rusdi Kirana ($660M) of Lion Air—each leaving an indelible mark on Indonesia’s economic journey.
Shaping Indonesia’s Future
These fifty names represent more than wealth—they symbolize vision, resilience, and leadership. From traditional sectors like tobacco and coal to modern industries such as media, pharmaceuticals, and aviation, these leaders continue to define Indonesia’s place in the global economy.
The Jakarta Globe Rich List 2011 remains a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit that drives the nation forward.
