Destry Damayanti becomes first woman to lead Indonesia’s central bank

Wednesday 02 September 2026 - 12:05

By: Azzat Manal

Destry Damayanti becomes first woman to lead Indonesia’s central bank

Indonesia has marked a historic moment in its monetary history after parliament formally approved the appointment of Destry Damayanti as governor of Bank Indonesia, making her the first woman to hold the institution’s top position.

The 62-year-old economist was confirmed during a plenary session in Jakarta on Tuesday. Lawmakers also approved Aida S. Budiman as first deputy governor and Solikin M. Juhro as deputy governor. The three officials will serve five-year terms running through 2031.

Damayanti brings extensive experience within Bank Indonesia to the position. She had served as the central bank’s first deputy governor since 2019, giving her a prominent role in shaping monetary and financial policy. She had also been serving as acting governor following the departure of Perry Warjiyo, who resigned on July 25 while serving his second term.

President Prabowo Subianto announced Damayanti’s nomination on August 10, beginning the parliamentary approval process that has now been completed.

During her recent hearing before lawmakers, Damayanti outlined her vision for strengthening the central bank’s ability to support Indonesia’s economic transformation. She emphasized the importance of maintaining institutional credibility, safeguarding economic and financial stability and supporting sustainable economic growth.

Her appointment comes at a time when central banks around the world are balancing several competing priorities, including monetary stability, financial resilience and economic expansion. For Indonesia, maintaining confidence in the financial system while supporting long-term development will be among the key challenges facing the new leadership.

Damayanti will now be responsible for turning her stated priorities into concrete policies while ensuring continuity in Indonesia’s monetary strategy. Her experience at the central bank is expected to provide institutional continuity as the country navigates evolving domestic and international economic conditions.

The parliamentary vote also establishes a new leadership team at Bank Indonesia, with Budiman and Juhro joining Damayanti for the five-year mandate. Together, they will oversee the institution’s monetary and financial responsibilities through 2031.

Beyond its economic significance, Damayanti’s appointment represents an important milestone for gender representation in Indonesia’s financial institutions. Her rise to the governorship makes her the first woman to officially lead the country’s central bank since its establishment.