The Indonesian Port Business Association (ABUPI) and PT Bank Negara Indonesia (Persero) Tbk (BNI) have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance collaboration in financing initiatives within the national port sector.
The agreement marks a significant step toward improving access to sustainable funding for port infrastructure and business development across Indonesia.
The MoU was signed by ABUPI Chairperson Liana Trisnawati and BNI Representative during the inauguration of ABUPI’s 2025–2030 executive board held at the Arya Duta Hotel, Central Jakarta, on April 17, 2025, a ceremonial event attended by representatives from the Ministry of Transportation, maritime stakeholders, and members of the business community.
The partnership aims to support the acceleration of investment and infrastructure growth in Indonesia’s port sector, particularly for Port Business Entities (Badan Usaha Pelabuhan – BUP) under ABUPI’s umbrella. The collaboration also seeks to promote inclusive economic growth through financial innovation and strategic support for port-related enterprises.
“This MoU is a manifestation of ABUPI’s commitment to becoming a bridge between government, industry, and financial institutions. We want to ensure that BUP permit holders, especially those ready to operate, have access to financing schemes that are efficient, reliable, and aligned with national priorities,” said Liana Trisnawati.
This MoU is aligned with ABUPI’s 2025–2030 strategic mission to develop a modern, inclusive, and globally competitive port ecosystem. One of ABUPI’s core missions is to facilitate collaboration and innovation that drives transformation in the national port sector.
The partnership with BNI is expected to become a model for how industry associations and financial institutions can work together to solve structural issues, such as limited investment access and fragmented infrastructure development.
The event concluded with a symbolic exchange of documents and a dialogue session between ABUPI members and BNI representatives, discussing practical steps for realizing port development projects through the new partnership.
Bankable and Investable
Before the MoU assignment, as part of the briefing, ABUPI also addressed the importance of making the organization—and the broader port industry—more attractive to financial institutions and investors. This effort supports ABUPI’s overarching goal of achieving global competitiveness.
Dr. Lucky Bayu Purnomo, a member of ABUPI’s Financial and Investment Expert Council, delivered an insightful presentation on building a robust port business ecosystem from a financial and investment standpoint.
“The port sector holds significant potential, but it must be developed through a more integrated and systematic approach to unlock banking access and attract investment,” said Dr. Lucky.
He emphasized the need to overcome business fragmentation and establish a comprehensive financing ecosystem. According to him, ABUPI should serve as a strategic bridge between port business entities, financial institutions, and potential investors.
To that end, Dr. Lucky provided management with practical insights into banking mechanisms and adaptable investment models for port development. He stressed the importance of presenting the port sector as a vital component of national logistics and the global supply chain—thereby positioning it as a long-term, high-value opportunity for investors.
“This sector must be seen as a strategic economic driver. When packaged correctly, it will attract both banks and investors,” he said.
He also shared that ABUPI has already initiated collaborations with several banks to support investment initiatives. As part of the training, administrators were equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to help members become more bankable and investable.