In 2011, GlobeAsia — later rebranded as Jakarta Globe — unveiled its definitive ranking of the 150 richest Indonesians, capturing the rapid growth and diversity of the nation’s economy. From that list, the top 50 names stand out not only for their immense fortunes but also for their vision, resilience, and influence across industries. Below is a closer look at these business leaders, starting with the first five who defined the era.

1. Eka Tjipta Widjaja – $12 Billion

Founder of the Sinar Mas Group, Eka Tjipta Widjaja rose from humble beginnings to build a vast empire spanning plantations, pulp and paper, mining, banking, and real estate. His work ethic and determination laid the foundation for one of Indonesia’s most powerful business dynasties.

2. Budi Hartono & Michael Hartono – $11.5 Billion

The Hartono brothers strengthened their fortune through Djarum, Indonesia’s iconic clove cigarette brand, while expanding into Bank Central Asia (BCA) and electronics. Their strategic investments cemented their place as pillars of Indonesia’s corporate sector.

3. Anthony Salim – $8 Billion

As the leader of the Salim Group and First Pacific, Anthony Salim oversees businesses in food, telecommunications, plantations, and industry. His ability to adapt to changing markets has kept the Salim family at the top of Indonesia’s corporate world.

4. Martua Sitorus – $4 Billion

Co-founding Wilmar International, Martua Sitorus became one of Southeast Asia’s most recognized agribusiness figures. His expertise in plantations and commodities positioned him as a central player in the global food supply chain.

5. Aburizal Bakrie – $3.8 Billion

A figure straddling both business and politics, Aburizal Bakrie leads the Bakrie Group, with ventures in coal mining, infrastructure, plantations, and property. Beyond his business empire, his influence extends into national policy and development.

6. Dato Low Tuck Kwong – $3.7 Billion

The founder of Bayan Resources, Dato Low Tuck Kwong is a heavyweight in Indonesia’s coal industry. His operational expertise has transformed Bayan into one of the country’s leading energy players.

7. Putra Sampoerna – $2.5 Billion

Through Sampoerna Strategic, Putra Sampoerna diversified from the family’s tobacco legacy into plantations and digital ventures, continuing to shape Indonesia’s business scene.

8. Sukanto Tanoto – $2 Billion

At the helm of Royal Golden Eagle (RGE), Sukanto Tanoto built a multinational enterprise in pulp and paper, plantations, and energy. His efforts toward sustainability earned him recognition both domestically and globally.

9. Peter Sondakh – $1.9 Billion

Leading the Rajawali Group, Peter Sondakh’s strategic foresight in mining and investments has positioned him as a prominent player in Indonesia’s investment community.

10. Susilo Wonowidjojo – $1.9 Billion

As the head of Gudang Garam, Susilo Wonowidjojo expanded one of Indonesia’s largest cigarette manufacturers, securing its dominance in the tobacco market.

11–50: Indonesia’s Diverse Titans of Industry

Beyond the top ten, the list reflects the diversity of Indonesia’s wealth creators. From Samin Tan in coal and energy to Theodore P. Rachmat with Triputra Group, and Mochtar Riady of the Lippo empire, each leader demonstrates the dynamic blend of vision and resilience that has fueled Indonesia’s economic rise.

Notable figures include Chairul Tanjung of CT Corp in media and finance, Rusdi Kirana of Lion Air revolutionizing aviation, and Ciputra, the legendary property developer. Meanwhile, entrepreneurs like Sandiaga Uno made their mark in investments and private equity, while Sri Prakash Lohia built Indorama into a global textile and petrochemical powerhouse.

From banking and property to agriculture and energy, the top 50 represents a cross-section of industries that continue to shape Indonesia’s modern economy. Their stories are not just about wealth but about the vision, risks, and resilience required to rise to the very top.