Back in 2011, GlobeAsia—later rebranded as the Jakarta Globe—released its definitive ranking of the 150 wealthiest Indonesians. This list reflected the rapid economic growth of the nation and highlighted the visionary leaders driving business forward.

From that compilation, here is a focused look at the top 50 names, featuring entrepreneurs and business dynasties whose resilience and influence shaped Indonesia’s economic story. Let’s begin with the leading figures.

1. Eka Tjipta Widjaja – $12 Billion

Founder of Sinar Mas Group, Eka Tjipta Widjaja transformed humble beginnings into one of Indonesia’s largest conglomerates. His empire covers plantations, pulp and paper, property, mining, and banking—cementing his family’s place as one of the nation’s most powerful business dynasties.

2. Budi Hartono & Michael Hartono – $11.5 Billion

The Hartono brothers built their fortune through Djarum, Indonesia’s iconic kretek cigarette brand. As major stakeholders in Bank Central Asia, they have also invested heavily in electronics and finance, making them central pillars of the country’s industry.

3. Anthony Salim – $8 Billion

At the helm of the Salim Group and First Pacific, Anthony Salim controls an extensive network of businesses spanning food, agriculture, telecommunications, and industry. His forward-looking strategies have kept the Salim family at the top tier of Indonesia’s corporate landscape.

4. Martua Sitorus – $4 Billion

As co-founder of Wilmar International, Martua Sitorus rose to prominence in the global agribusiness arena. His expertise in commodities and plantations has made him one of Southeast Asia’s most respected entrepreneurs.

5. Aburizal Bakrie – $3.8 Billion

Both a businessman and political leader, Aburizal Bakrie heads the Bakrie Group, with ventures in coal mining, property, plantations, and infrastructure. His influence extends beyond corporate boardrooms into national policy and development.

6. Dato Low Tuck Kwong – $3.7 Billion

The founder of Bayan Resources, Dato Low Tuck Kwong is a prominent figure in coal mining. His business acumen has established the company as one of Indonesia’s most significant energy players.

7. Putra Sampoerna – $2.5 Billion

Known for leading Sampoerna Strategic, Putra Sampoerna continues his family’s legacy in tobacco while expanding into plantations and digital ventures, securing the Sampoerna name as one of Indonesia’s most enduring brands.

8. Sukanto Tanoto – $2 Billion

At the helm of Royal Golden Eagle, Sukanto Tanoto manages a global empire in pulp, paper, plantations, and energy. His emphasis on sustainable practices has earned him international recognition.

9. Peter Sondakh – $1.9 Billion

Through the Rajawali Group, Peter Sondakh has diversified into mining and investments. His sharp eye for growth opportunities has solidified his standing in the investment community.

10. Susilo Wonowidjojo – $1.9 Billion

Leading Gudang Garam, Susilo Wonowidjojo has expanded the company into one of Indonesia’s largest cigarette producers, maintaining its stronghold in the market.

From Samin Tan in mining to Chairul Tanjung in media and finance, and from legendary property magnates like Ciputra to airline pioneer Rusdi Kirana of Lion Air, the rest of the list reflects the diversity of Indonesia’s business elite.

Names like Mochtar Riady (Lippo Group), Sri Prakash Lohia (Indorama), Boenjamin Setiawan (Kalbe Farma), and Harry Tanoesoedibjo (Global Mediacom) underline how sectors such as finance, pharmaceuticals, consumer goods, and multimedia contributed to Indonesia’s rise.

By the time the rankings reach Eddy Sariaatmadja at number 50, leading SCTV and expanding into ICT and minerals, it becomes clear that these individuals collectively built the foundation for Indonesia’s modern economy.

Final Word

The 2011 Jakarta Globe Rich List did more than showcase wealth; it told the story of a nation powered by entrepreneurship, family businesses, and bold visions. From agribusiness to media, mining to property, these top 50 figures were not just billionaires—they were architects of Indonesia’s economic transformation.