Digital Disruption: Reshaping Financial Inclusion in Indonesia

Indonesia offers a favourable environment for advancing financial inclusion due to its thriving economy and large population. The Indonesian government has set an ambitious goal of achieving 90% financial inclusion by 2024. However, currently, over 50% of adults in the country do not have access to banking services, and a substantial number have limited access according to the World Bank's Global Findex Database. Nevertheless, there are notable developments taking place that are transforming the financial services sector and facilitating advancements in inclusive finance, despite these obstacles.

According to The World Bank's Digital Financial Services Landscape in Indonesia report in 2022, the financial services industry is experiencing a digital revolution. It is projected that the number of internet users will reach an astonishing 222 million by 2025, while the mobile phone user base is estimated to expand to 360 million during the same period. This has led to the rise of digital financial services is revolutionizing the accessibility of financial products and services in the country. The advent of mobile banking and other digital platforms has bridged the gap, allowing even remote communities to conveniently access financial services. Moreover, the fintech industry and ride-hailing apps have played a significant role in accelerating this transformation by introducing innovative business models like peer-to-peer (P2P) lending and microloans catered to the unbanked and underbanked populations. In addition to advanced payment platforms and e-wallets, enabling a seamless experience.

To thrive and stay competitive, financial institutions (FIs) must heavily invest in cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), internet of things (IoT), advanced analytics, cloud computing, blockchain and robotic process automation (RPAs) to accelerate their digital transformation. Additionally, by utilising open banking application programming interfaces (APIs) and establishing partnerships with fintechs and third-party companies, the banking sector can enhance its digital capabilities to attract and onboard more customers, offer highly personalised experiences, and effectively meet their needs.

The Asian Banker Finance Indonesia 2023, aims to gather regulators, key decision-makers from financial institutions, industry players, and disruptors in an immersive event. This event aligns with the objectives of OJK, the financial authority, to expedite digital transformation and accomplish financial inclusion. Through interactive dialogue, participants will have the opportunity to discuss and tackle the current trends, advancements, and obstacles encountered by the Indonesian financial services industry.