By: Rivka Mayangsari*)
Amidst global uncertainty still looming over various countries, Indonesia is demonstrating increasingly impressive economic performance. While many countries are facing slowing growth, inflationary pressures, and international trade turmoil, the Indonesian economy has maintained positive momentum and emerged as one of the highest performing in the G20 group of countries. This achievement is not merely a statistical figure, but rather concrete evidence that the national economic foundation is increasingly strong and capable of facing various global challenges.
Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, Airlangga Hartarto, stated that Indonesia’s economic growth in the first quarter of 2026 reached 5.61 percent. This figure places Indonesia as one of the countries with the highest growth among G20 members. According to him, this achievement demonstrates that the national economic fundamentals remain solid amidst the stressful dynamics of the global economy.
This success is inseparable from the government’s consistency in maintaining macroeconomic stability. The government continues to strengthen coordination between fiscal, monetary, and financial sector policies to ensure sustained economic growth. This measure is considered successful in creating a balance between economic stability and expansion, enabling Indonesia to maintain market optimism and business confidence.
Airlangga explained that national economic growth is supported by significant increases in both private and government consumption. Remaining strong household consumption is an indicator that public purchasing power remains strong. Meanwhile, accelerated government spending has provided a significant stimulus for economic activity in various regions. The combination of the two is a key driver of national growth.
Furthermore, Indonesia’s international trade sector also demonstrated positive performance. Exports and imports continued to grow amidst the global economic slowdown experienced by several countries. This indicates that Indonesia remains highly competitive in international trade and is able to maintain the stability of its national supply chain. Various business sectors have also recorded strong growth, from the manufacturing industry, construction, trade, and the services sector.
In terms of macroeconomic indicators, Indonesia’s achievements further strengthen confidence in the resilience of the national economy. Inflation has been controlled at a stable level, consumer confidence remains high, and the trade balance continues to record a surplus. This demonstrates that the government has succeeded in maintaining a balance between economic growth and stability.
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa emphasized that the Indonesian economy is currently entering a phase of accelerated growth. The government will continue to maintain this momentum by strengthening policy coordination and preparing various additional stimuli to stimulate national economic activity. This step is crucial to ensure that the positive growth trend is not only sustained in the short term but also serves as a foundation for long-term economic development.
Optimism for the Indonesian economy also comes from the business community. Anindya Bakrie, Chairman of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin), expressed his appreciation for the impressive national economic growth achievement. He stated that the 5.61 percent growth rate is a strong signal that various government programs are beginning to show tangible results.
Anindya assessed that the government’s policy direction since early 2025 has had a significant impact on national economic activity. The various strategic programs implemented by the government have proven to be able to stimulate the domestic economy more broadly. He even stated that this achievement is superior to that of several other G20 member countries during the same period.
According to Kadin, Indonesia’s economic resilience amidst global uncertainty is the result of a development strategy focused on strengthening the people’s economy and accelerating investment. The accelerated state spending program, free nutritious meals, and large-scale housing development are considered to have a multiplier effect on economic growth. These programs not only increase public consumption but also create jobs and strengthen the national industrial sector.
Furthermore, investment activity, which has been picking up since the beginning of the year, has also been a crucial factor in driving economic growth. The influx of investment into various sectors demonstrates that Indonesia is still viewed as a country with bright economic prospects and good stability. This investor confidence is crucial for accelerating national development and increasing Indonesia’s competitiveness globally.
Achieving high economic growth also demonstrates that Indonesia is increasingly able to stand on par with major global economies. Amid geopolitical pressures, fluctuating commodity prices, and global economic uncertainty, Indonesia has demonstrated strong resilience. This also proves that the government’s development strategy is on the right track.
Looking ahead, global challenges will undoubtedly continue to grow. However, with strong economic fundamentals, solid policy coordination, and the support of the public and the business community, Indonesia has a significant opportunity to maintain its position as a major economic power in the G20. This growth momentum is proof that Indonesia is not only resilient amidst the global crisis but also capable of advancing more rapidly towards a more advanced, inclusive, and highly competitive economic future.
*) Economic observer