In 2011, GlobeAsia—later rebranded as the Jakarta Globe— released its highly anticipated list of the 150 wealthiest Indonesians. This ranking highlighted the remarkable growth of Indonesia’s economy and the business icons driving it forward. From traditional industries to modern sectors, the top 50 names reflect resilience, vision, and leadership that continue to shape the nation’s future.

Below is a closer look at the most influential figures who dominated the list in 2011.

1. Eka Tjipta Widjaja – $12 Billion

Founder of the Sinar Mas Group, Eka Tjipta Widjaja rose from humble beginnings to build a conglomerate spanning plantations, pulp and paper, property, banking, and mining. His legacy stands as one of Indonesia’s most powerful business dynasties.

2. Budi Hartono & Michael Hartono – $11.5 Billion

The Hartono brothers are synonymous with Djarum, Indonesia’s iconic cigarette brand, and are key shareholders in Bank Central Asia (BCA). With investments in banking and electronics, they remain central pillars of Indonesia’s corporate landscape.

3. Anthony Salim – $8 Billion

At the helm of the Salim Group and First Pacific, Anthony Salim manages a vast empire that includes food, telecommunications, plantations, and manufacturing. His strategic approach has kept the Salim family name at the forefront of Indonesian business.

4. Martua Sitorus – $4 Billion

As co-founder of Wilmar International, Martua Sitorus became a leading player in the global agribusiness industry. His expertise in plantations and commodities has secured him recognition across Southeast Asia.

5. Aburizal Bakrie – $3.8 Billion

Business leader and political figure, Aburizal Bakrie heads the Bakrie Group, active in coal mining, infrastructure, plantations, and property. His influence extends beyond business into national development and policymaking.

6. Dato Low Tuck Kwong – $3.7 Billion

Founder of Bayan Resources, Low Tuck Kwong made his mark in coal mining. His investments and operational expertise helped establish Bayan as one of Indonesia’s leading energy companies.

7. Putra Sampoerna – $2.5 Billion

Known for Sampoerna Strategic, Putra Sampoerna has expanded into plantations and digital ventures, continuing the family’s legacy after its historic tobacco business.

8. Sukanto Tanoto – $2 Billion

Leading Royal Golden Eagle (RGE), Sukanto Tanoto grew a global enterprise in pulp, paper, energy, and plantations. He is also recognized for his efforts in sustainable practices.

9. Peter Sondakh – $1.9 Billion

Founder of the Rajawali Group, Peter Sondakh is well known for his investments in mining and diversified industries. His sharp business instincts cement his role in Indonesia’s investment community.

10. Susilo Wonowidjojo – $1.9 Billion

At the head of Gudang Garam, one of the nation’s largest cigarette manufacturers, Susilo Wonowidjojo has overseen consistent growth and market dominance.

Other Notable Names from the Top 50

From Samin Tan in mining and Theodore P. Rachmat in energy, to Chairul Tanjung with CT Corp and Ciputra, the visionary property magnate—the list reflects the diversity of Indonesia’s wealth creation. Business giants such as Sri Prakash Lohia of Indorama in petrochemicals, Boenjamin Setiawan of Kalbe Farma in pharmaceuticals, and Rusdi Kirana of Lion Air in aviation also played defining roles.

By 2011, Indonesia’s wealth leaders had built fortunes across sectors such as coal mining, property, media, retail, consumer goods, and finance. Figures like Mochtar Riady (Lippo Group), Harry Tanoesoedibjo (Global Mediacom), and Eddy Sariaatmadja (SCTV) showed the growing importance of finance and media in shaping modern Indonesia.

Final Thoughts

The 2011 Jakarta Globe Rich List captured a pivotal moment in Indonesia’s economic story. These top 50 entrepreneurs and families not only amassed fortunes but also played central roles in shaping industries that continue to impact the nation. From resource-based empires to consumer goods and media, their stories remain integral to understanding Indonesia’s rise as one of Asia’s most dynamic economies.