The forum highlighted Indonesia’s key drivers such as a consumer base of over 270 million people and steady economic growth of around 5%, despite global volatility, while identifying high-potential industries. This reinforces the Bank’s position as a leading regional bank standing alongside and empowering Thai investors to grow in Indonesia in a sustainable manner.
Bangkok Bank President Chartsiri Sophonpanich said Bangkok Bank and Permata Bank have jointly organized the Indonesia Investment & Trade Forum 2026 for the second year under the theme ‘Driving Growth and Creating Opportunities: Unlocking Thailand & Indonesia Trade Corridor’. The forum aims to support business expansion and unlock new opportunities for Thai investors going to Indonesia.
Indonesia is a leading investment destination in the region, particularly in the manufacturing, energy and digital services sectors. With a population of more than 270 million people, Indonesia has both large labor and consumer markets, and it has maintained consistent annual average economic growth of at least 5% despite global economic volatility.
In addition, the Indonesian government has implemented regulatory reforms and infrastructure development to reduce barriers and facilitate foreign investment, supported by policies to develop the domestic digital economy. These factors create a favorable environment for growth and open up new opportunities for Thai investors seeking to expand into Indonesia.
“The Indonesia Investment & Trade Forum shows many Thai entrepreneurs are interested in investing in Indonesia with strong demand for opportunities in high-potential markets. As a leading regional bank, Bangkok Bank is ready to support customers through Permata Bank’s extensive network of more than 200 branches across 81 major cities throughout Indonesia. This is complemented by a team of local experts with in-depth knowledge and experience who provide advisory services on business, investment, trade partnership, and appropriate financial solutions. The Bank has continuously organized study trips for customers to explore Indonesia’s market potential, enabling them to gain deeper insights and to understand the opportunities and business challenges from real experience. This helps them make confident and well-informed investment decisions in Indonesia,” said Mr. Chartsiri.
Permata Bank President Director Mrs. Meliza M. Rusli said despite global uncertainties, Indonesia continues to demonstrate resilience and remains one of the most attractive investment destinations in the region. Strong investment interest from countries including Singapore, China, Hong Kong, Japan, and Thailand reflects confidence in Indonesia’s long-term growth potential. Investment flows continue to expand across sectors such as resources, food, energy, infrastructure, logistics, and telecommunication.
“This resilience gives businesses the confidence to look beyond today’s challenges, see opportunities amid uncertainty, and continue moving forward with optimism. For Thai businesses, Indonesia is not only a market of opportunities, but also a place to build meaningful partnerships, strengthen regional connectivity, and create sustainable growth together. At Permata Bank, we believe confidence builds trust, and trust is the foundation of building resilient, sustainable businesses. As part of Bangkok Bank Group, we are committed to being a trusted partner throughout this journey, growing together with our customers, their families and their businesses by providing local insights, financial solutions, and advisory capabilities that help Thai investors navigate Indonesia’s evolving business landscape and create lasting value,” said Mrs. Meliza.
The ‘Indonesia Investment & Trade Forum 2026’ was honored by the presence of H.E. Mr. Hari Prabowo, Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to Thailand, and H.E. Mr. Prapan Disyatat, Ambassador of Thailand to Indonesia, who jointly delivered the opening remarks. H.E. Probowo addressed the panel about attractiveness of Indonesia, raising resiliency and energy securities as selling points for the country. Indonesia’s economy remains strong despite multiple challenges in 2026.
Additionally, H.E. Prabowo stated regarding the MSCI issue that Indonesia and its stock exchange are accelerating improvements in free float and transparency—the primary areas of concern raised by MSCI. He expressed a positive outlook on the development of this matter following MSCI’s decision to postpone its review.
Furthermore, he opined that the Indonesian market should not be downgraded to a Frontier Market, as it remains resilient against volatility and boasts a market capitalization significantly higher than those markets. Additionally, he noted that fund inflows have begun to return over the past few weeks, particularly into bonds, as Indonesia’s market firmly maintains its Investment Grade rating.
Mr. Josua Pardede, Chief Economist of Permata Bank, provided an overview and outlook on Indonesia’s economy for 2026. The forum also featured a panel discussion on ‘Investing in Indonesia,’. Distinguished speakers included Mr. Heriyanto Irawan, Senior Strategist/ Analyst of PT Verdhana Sekuritas Indonesia; Mr. Axton Salim, Director of PT Indofood Sukses Makmur Tbk; and Mrs. Kartika Setiabudy, Director of PT Kalbe Farma Tbk.
The forum also featured an Exclusive Talk by Mr. Tan Passakornnatee, Founder & CEO of Ichitan Group PCL, who shared his experience about investing in Indonesia, including key challenges, lessons learned, and emerging opportunities. Another session, ‘Get to Know Halal Indonesia’, presented by Mr. Khathawut Lohmud, Head of International and Public Relations, Halal Affairs Department, Central Islamic Council of Thailand (CICOT), offered insights into Indonesia’s halal landscape, regulations, and certification process. The event also included a closing remark by Dr. Kobsak Pootrakool, Senior Executive Vice President of Bangkok Bank, on the topic of ‘Indonesia: Opportunities for Thai Businesses’.
