The award was presented as a mark of the state’s appreciation for Burhanuddin’s contributions to maintaining monetary stability and strengthening the international banking system.
Widely regarded as a senior economist with a distinguished track record in national economic policy, Burhanuddin has consistently demonstrated dedication and strategic leadership amid both global and domestic economic challenges.
He currently serves on the Board of Advisors at the independent think tank Prasasti Center for Policy Studies.
Burhanuddin held the position of Governor of Bank Indonesia (BI) from 2003 to 2008 and has played a key role in various strategic initiatives across the economic and development sectors.
This marks the second time Burhanuddin has received a Bintang Mahaputera honor.
In 2007, while still serving as BI Governor, he was awarded the Bintang Mahaputera Utama by President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono.
That same year, Global Finance, an American international economic magazine, named Burhanuddin one of the world’s five best central bankers for his success in steering Indonesia’s central bank and maintaining macroeconomic stability throughout 2005.
The “Best Central Banker” award was presented at the National Press Club in Washington, DC, in a gathering of global banking leaders.
Burhanuddin Abdullah is widely recognized as an economist whose achievements have left a lasting impact on Indonesia’s economic trajectory.
One of his most notable milestones occurred in October 2006, when, as BI Governor, he led the bold decision to fully repay Indonesia’s debt to the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
He conveyed the announcement with simple yet powerful words: “We have conveyed to the IMF, today our debt is paid off. The mechanism is five days. Next week Indonesia will have no more debt to the IMF.”
This strategic move freed Indonesia from IMF obligations a full year ahead of schedule.
Originally slated for 2010, the repayment was accelerated to 2007, made possible by strong fiscal conditions and foreign exchange reserves totaling US$42.35 billion at the time.
In October 2006, Indonesia paid US$3.2 billion in its second installment, following a US$3.75 billion payment in June. With this, the country officially settled its IMF debt and achieved a historic milestone in economic sovereignty.
On this day, President Prabowo conferred state honors on 141 individuals from diverse sectors.
“On behalf of the nation and the Republic of Indonesia, I express my gratitude for your service and dedication. May your contributions become a legacy for future generations,” said President Prabowo in his remarks.
Related news: Agriculture Minister honored for national food sovereignty
Translator: Bayu Saputra, Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
Editor: Primayanti
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
