Parliament Backs Destry Damayanti as First Woman to Lead Bank Indonesia

Indonesia's parliament has approved Destry Damayanti as the next governor of Bank Indonesia, making her the first woman to lead the central bank. The 62-year-old economist, who was the sole nominee, will take over after Perry Warjiyo's surprise resignation in July, midway through his second term.

Speaking to reporters after Tuesday's approval, Damayanti said economic stability would be her primary focus. "We see that global uncertainty is still high, so it means stability will still be our priority," she said, adding that the bank would continue policies suited to current conditions.

Damayanti, a Cornell-educated economist who has served as senior deputy governor since 2019, is expected to be formally appointed by President Prabowo Subianto through a decree. She has pledged to work with the government to keep inflation under control and ensure sufficient liquidity in the economy.

The new governor takes charge of Southeast Asia's largest economy, valued at $1.4 trillion, at a time when investors are watching fiscal management, stock market transparency, and the central bank's autonomy. During her vetting last week, Damayanti acknowledged a "highly complex situation" requiring stronger coordination among institutions, while insisting that cooperation with state agencies would not compromise the bank's independence.

In his first public remarks since stepping down, Warjiyo said the new leadership should strengthen the bank's mandate of ensuring stability while supporting growth. Analysts expect Damayanti to provide continuity in monetary policy and maintain a constructive relationship with the Prabowo administration.