SURABAYA, iNEWSSURABAYA.ID – The Daya Anagata Nusantara (Danantara) Investment Management Agency (BPI), established by President Prabowo Subianto, is now in the public spotlight. Rumours are circulating that BPI Danantara will be staffed by figures from state-owned enterprises and political circles. However, several observers believe this move could threaten the institution’s original purpose.

BPI Danantara was established with the aim of managing and optimising state assets through strategic investments. According to Professor Dr Murpin Josua Sembiring, an observer of national and international economic strategy, this institution should focus on five main sectors: industrial downstreaming, infrastructure, food security, energy security, and the digital industry.

“In accordance with President Prabowo’s direction, those at BPI Danantara should remain focused on their original intention, namely managing investments for Indonesia’s economic progress,” he emphasised.

Sembiring, who is also the Chair of the East Java Province Indonesian Professors Association (DPD Pergubi), emphasised that the composition of the BPI Danantara board must reflect expertise and professionalism. He stated that 20% of the institution’s members could come from state-owned enterprises, while the other 80% should consist of academics and economic practitioners who understand global economic challenges.

“I had a discussion with Mr Erick Thohir (Minister of State-Owned Enterprises) about the importance of maintaining professionalism. I agree that experts from state-owned enterprises at Danantara should be limited to 20%, while 80% should be academics and practitioners who understand President Prabowo’s vision,” Sembiring continued.

Sembiring firmly rejected the direct involvement of politicians in the management of BPI Danantara. He reminded them that politicians should focus on their duties in the House of Representatives (DPR), which is to discuss regulations and rules that support the people’s economy.

“If politicians interfere, this institution will only become a platform for political favours. This will hinder the achievement of the President’s grand vision, and I believe Indonesia will not progress if that happens,” he said.

Managing State Assets, Improving the Indonesian Economy

BPI Danantara is tasked with managing the substantial assets of several state-owned enterprises (SOEs), such as Bank Mandiri, BRI, BNI, PLN, Pertamina, Telkom Indonesia, and others. The total assets under management are estimated to reach US$600 billion, with initial capital of around Rp1,000 trillion (approximately US$61 billion).

With proper management, BPI Danantara is expected to make a significant contribution to Indonesia’s economic growth, with a target of 8% per year. Furthermore, optimal investment is also expected to stabilise the rupiah exchange rate and strengthen the national economy.

As part of globalisation and technological advancement efforts, BPI Danantara will collaborate with several major countries, including:

China: Development of the manufacturing industry, high-speed rail transportation, new energy vehicles, AI- and IoT-based smart transportation systems, and renewable energy.
Singapore: Investment in the high-tech manufacturing and pharmaceutical industries.
United States and Europe: Cooperation in infrastructure development and the digital industry.
Japan: Investment in the automotive, electronics, and electric vehicle (EV) sectors.

With supportive regulations and an aggressive investment policy, BPI Danantara has the potential to be a key driver for the development of national projects that support the Indonesian government’s vision.

The Future of BPI Danantara: Huge Potential for Economic Growth

With a clear direction and professional management, BPI Danantara has a significant opportunity to play a key role in accelerating Indonesia’s economic growth. Going forward, this institution is expected to not only attract significant investment but also become a driving force for achieving sustainable economic sovereignty.