BI Launches Sovereign Rupiah Expedition to North Sulawesi's 3T Regions

Bank Indonesia (BI) is conducting a Sovereign Rupiah Expedition (ERB) to five underdeveloped, frontier, and outermost (3T) islands in North Sulawesi Province. Head of BI North Sulawesi Joko Supratikto stated during the team’s departure from Bitung, Sulut, on Tuesday that this year’s Sovereign Rupiah activity involves the regional government and the Indonesian Navy. He said the team will visit the islands of Salibabu, Makalehi, Karatung, Kabaruan, and Miangas from 23 June to 29 June 2026. “The ERB is carried out to ensure the availability of rupiah currency in sufficient quantities as a symbol of national sovereignty,” he said. It also aims to ensure the rupiah’s quality is maintained and distributed evenly throughout the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia. Since 2012, 150 mobile cash or ERB activities have been conducted in cooperation with the Indonesian Navy, reaching 766 3T islands across the country. For this mission, BI is using the Indonesian Navy vessel KRI Selar 879, carrying Rp5.5 billion in fit-for-circulation currency. The journey involves a 15-member ERB team from BI, originating from North Sulawesi and several other regions, assisted by Navy personnel. The 2026 ERB team has three main tasks: distributing fit-for-circulation rupiah, including newly printed notes, withdrawing unfit currency, and providing education on the ‘Cinta, Bangga, Paham Rupiah’ (Love, Pride, Understand Rupiah) programme. “This programme also helps maintain smooth economic transactions and strengthens nationalism among communities in 3T and border regions with other countries,” he said. According to him, KRI Selar 879 carries a message of the state’s presence in 3T regions, protecting and serving the people. “Every step they take is a form of service; we hope this mission proceeds smoothly,” he said.