In 2011, GlobeAsia—which has since rebranded as the Jakarta Globe—released its authoritative ranking of the 150 richest Indonesians. The list captured the pulse of Indonesia’s growing economy and showcased the business leaders whose vision and determination reshaped industries. From this extensive list, here is a closer look at the top 50 individuals and families who stood at the forefront of Indonesia’s business landscape.

1. Eka Tjipta Widjaja – $12 Billion

Founder of the Sinar Mas Group, Eka Tjipta Widjaja built one of Indonesia’s most influential conglomerates spanning plantations, pulp and paper, property, banking, and mining. From humble beginnings, he rose to create a dynasty that continues to shape the nation’s economy.

2. Budi Hartono & Michael Hartono – $11.5 Billion

Better known as the Hartono brothers, they made their fortune through Djarum, Indonesia’s leading cigarette company. Their investments in Bank Central Asia and electronics further cemented their place among the country’s most powerful business figures.

3. Anthony Salim – $8 Billion

At the helm of the Salim Group and First Pacific, Anthony Salim leads ventures across food, telecommunications, plantations, and industry. His strategic decisions have ensured that the Salim family remains a dominant name in the corporate world.

4. Martua Sitorus – $4 Billion

Co-founder of Wilmar International, Martua Sitorus is recognized as one of Southeast Asia’s most successful entrepreneurs. His expertise in agribusiness and commodities built a global empire.

5. Aburizal Bakrie – $3.8 Billion

A prominent businessman and politician, Aburizal Bakrie oversees the Bakrie Group, active in coal, plantations, infrastructure, and property. His influence extends from the boardroom to national policymaking.

6. Dato Low Tuck Kwong – $3.7 Billion

Founder of Bayan Resources, he is a leading figure in Indonesia’s coal mining sector. His expertise in operations and investments has made the company one of the nation’s most important energy players.

7. Putra Sampoerna – $2.5 Billion

As leader of Sampoerna Strategic, Putra Sampoerna diversified into plantations and digital ventures, while continuing the family’s strong business legacy rooted in the tobacco industry.

8. Sukanto Tanoto – $2 Billion

Head of Royal Golden Eagle, Sukanto Tanoto built a global enterprise spanning pulp and paper, energy, and plantations. His dedication to sustainability has earned him recognition at home and abroad.

9. Peter Sondakh – $1.9 Billion

The driving force behind the Rajawali Group, Peter Sondakh is well known for his sharp investment strategies across property, mining, and hospitality.

10. Susilo Wonowidjojo – $1.9 Billion

Leading Gudang Garam, one of Indonesia’s largest tobacco manufacturers, Susilo Wonowidjojo has expanded the company into new markets while ensuring its dominance in the cigarette industry.

11–20: Expanding Business Powerhouses

Figures like Samin Tan ($1.8B) of Borneo Lumbung Energy, Theodore Rachmat ($1.7B) of Triputra, Kiki Barki ($1.6B) of Tanito Harum, and William Katuari ($1.45B) of Wings Group represent the strength of Indonesia’s mining, consumer goods, and industrial sectors. Visionaries such as Mochtar Riady ($1.3B) of Lippo and Edwin Soeryadjaya ($1.25B) of Saratoga highlight the enduring influence of family-led conglomerates.

21–30: Industry Builders

From Prajogo Pangestu ($1.05B) of Barito Pacific in petrochemicals to Chairul Tanjung ($900M) of CT Corp in media and banking, these entrepreneurs continue to diversify Indonesia’s economy. Ciputra ($790M), a legend in property development, remains a symbol of urban growth and innovation.

31–40: Emerging Tycoons

Business leaders such as Rusdi Kirana ($660M) of Lion Air, Harry Tanoesoedibjo ($710M) of Global Mediacom, and Sandiaga Uno ($645M)—later a prominent political figure—showcase how aviation, media, and investment fueled Indonesia’s modern growth.

41–50: New Frontiers of Wealth

The list rounds out with influential names like Jogi Hendra Atmaja ($610M) of Mayora Group, Jakob Oetama ($605M) of Kompas Gramedia, Tommy Winata ($570M) of Artha Graha, and Eddy Sariaatmadja ($550M) in media and ICT. Each has contributed to Indonesia’s dynamic corporate environment.

Final Thoughts

The 2011 Jakarta Globe Rich List highlighted more than just wealth—it showcased resilience, innovation, and leadership. From traditional sectors like plantations and tobacco to emerging industries such as telecommunications, aviation, and media, these 50 figures defined Indonesia’s business era. Their stories reflect not only financial success but also the nation’s evolving role in the global economy.