Indonesia’s financial technology sector is extending its reach beyond the country’s traditional economic centres, with digital lending provider Samir reporting a 62% increase in financing outside Java during the first nine months of 2026. The expansion highlights growing demand for alternative financial services across the Indonesian archipelago, particularly among small businesses seeking access to capital.
Financing exceeds one trillion rupiah
PT Sahabat Mikro Fintek (Samir), an Indonesian peer-to-peer lending company, reported disbursing more than Rp1.02 trillion in financing outside Java between January and September 2026.
The figure represents a 62% increase compared with the corresponding period in 2025.
Sumatra recorded the strongest growth at 65%, followed by Kalimantan at 64% and Sulawesi at 60%.
Financing also increased across Bali and Nusa Tenggara, Maluku and Papua, reflecting the company’s efforts to expand beyond Indonesia’s most populous island.
Small businesses drive financial inclusion
Indonesia’s micro, small and medium-sized enterprises remain central to the national economy, yet many businesses face obstacles when seeking conventional bank financing.
Digital lending platforms offer alternative channels for accessing working capital, particularly where traditional banking infrastructure is less developed.
Samir’s chief executive, Handy Juniandri, said the company’s regional expansion is intended to improve access to financing while maintaining responsible lending practices.
Despite the geographical expansion, Java continues to account for approximately 69% of Samir’s financing portfolio.
Bank partnerships support expansion
Samir is strengthening cooperation with traditional financial institutions through lending partnerships.
Its banking partners include Bank Neo Commerce, Superbank and Bank Sahabat Sampoerna.
The arrangements demonstrate how digital lending platforms and established banks can cooperate to distribute financing to a wider range of customers.
Samir reports cumulative lending of more than Rp8.25 trillion to over two million borrowers across Indonesia.
Managing the risks of digital credit
Rapid lending growth also creates challenges involving borrower protection, credit assessment and repayment capacity.
Samir reported a non-performing loan ratio of 1.95% as of 16 October, below the industry figure of approximately 4.73%.
Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority, OJK, continues to emphasise responsible lending, governance and consumer protection as the sector expands.
A changing financial landscape
The latest figures illustrate how fintech companies are reaching markets historically underserved by conventional banking.
However, increased lending volumes do not automatically guarantee financial inclusion. Affordable borrowing, sustainable repayment and measurable benefits for small businesses remain essential.
For Indonesia, the development represents another stage in building a more geographically inclusive financial system.
NewsHub Finance | Indonesia & Fintech | 21 October 2026
Indonesia’s financial technology sector is extending its reach beyond the country’s traditional economic centres, with digital lending provider Samir reporting a 62% increase in financing outside Java during the first nine months of 2026. The expansion highlights growing demand for alternative financial services across the Indonesian archipelago, particularly among small businesses seeking access to capital.
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