Jakarta – The Indonesia International Banks Association (Perbina) re-elected Batara Sianturi, Citi Indonesia’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), as Chairman of Perbina for the 2022-2027 period. This is his second consecutive appointment as Chairman since the previous period of 2016 -2022.

In his capacity, Batara will facilitate and represent the interests of members in establishing relationship with stakeholders, including with banking sector, regulators, media, and the public, as well as ensuring that members make positive and significant contributions to the banking sector in supporting the growth and recovery of the Indonesian economy.

"It is an honor for me to be entrusted again as Chairman. Perbina has been an excellent banking association for international financial institutions to network collaborate and synergize. I am committed to continue to represent the interests of our members and ensure that we provide positive contributions to the country’s financial system and the Indonesian economy more broadly" said Batara following his appointment.

According to him, one of the great opportunities for foreign banks is to increase the distribution of credit to various customer segments and sector. Based on The Indonesian Banking Statistics report issued by OJK in May 2022, foreign bank lending stood at Rp 179.8 trillion as of May 2022, a 2.3% increase year on year (yoy). Furthermore, credit contributions should be extended to the sector of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). “We can continue to increase the potential of credit to a wider segment to touch the MSME sector, where MSMEs are now the pillars of the Indonesian economy. This is one of the effective ways to support the National Economic Recovery Policy (PEN),” Batara added.

Batara has been with Citi for over 34 years, including 7 years as CEO for Citi Indonesia. Batara previously served as CEO of Citi Philippines and Regional Head for the Philippines and Guam (2013-2015), as well as CEO of Citi Hungary and Regional Head for 12 Eastern European countries (2007-2013). Batara earned two Bachelor of Science degrees in Chemical Engineering and in Polymer/Macromolecular Science from Case Western Reserve University, as well as a Master of Chemical Engineering degree from Steven’s Institute of Technology and and MBA degree in Finance from St. John’s University.

In 2021, Batara was named the best CEO by Infobank for his contribution in the banking sector and Best CEO by SWA magazine in the Employees' Choice Award 2020 for his success in leading Citi Indonesia and navigating the company.

Perbina consists of 22 banks from America, Europe, Asia Pacific, totaling 10 countries comprising of branches, subsidiaries, and representative offices of global and regional banks. Perbina holds regular meetings to discuss banking issues in financial forums, compliance forums, risk forums and technology/operations forums.