We will expand access to banking services through non-conventional method by utilizing information technology, telecommunication, and agent cooperation, known as branchless banking."Jakarta (ANTARA News) - The Indonesian central bank has issued a policy which strengthens the intermediary function of the national banking as part of efforts to expand public access to banking services through branchless banking.
"We will expand access to banking services through non-conventional method by utilizing information technology, telecommunication, and agent cooperation, known as branchless banking," Bank Indonesia Governor Darmin Nasution said in his address to the annual banking meeting 2012 here on Friday.
Through the strategy, banking services will reach all elements of the community without having to build bank offices, he said.
"The choice to operate branchless banking will bring about large benefit because it will lead to synergy among the banking industry, technology-based industry such as telecommunication company and micro small businesses," he said.
He said the combination of the highly-regulated banking industry supported by financial system safety networking and adequate customer protection, telecommunication company and retailers with broad networks and scope as well as expertise in mass market will lead to harmonious combination to reach all parts of the country.
Yet the branchless banking must be operated by paying attention to risks, including its impact on financial system stability, he said.
"That`s why in early 2013 Bank Indonesia will issue guidelines to operate branchless banking," he said. (S012)
Editor: Kunto Wibisono
Copyright © ANTARA 2012
