BI Reveals KKI Function, Not Just a Credit Card for Public Spending

Bank Indonesia (BI) has emphasised that the presence of the Indonesian Credit Card (KKI) is not aimed at encouraging the public to take on debt or increase consumptive behaviour. The instrument is presented as one of the alternatives that complements the national digital payment ecosystem.

Head of the Bank Indonesia Representative Office (KPwBI) Purwokerto Aswin Gantina said KKI provides a facility for the public to carry out transactions first and pay later according to the due date.

“This is not credit, but more of a payment deferral. So, how this facility can be used for before payment,” Aswin said in Purwokerto, Banyumas Regency, Central Java, Wednesday, 26 August 2026.

Aswin explained that KKI is present to complement the various payment instruments that the public has been using so far. These instruments range from account balances, debit cards, digital wallets to credit cards. With KKI, the public has an additional option when they need a payment facility before funds are available in their account.

According to Aswin, KKI allows users to complete transactions first as long as they are still within the available facility limit. Payment is then made in accordance with the applicable terms and due date. The scheme is considered to provide flexibility when payment needs arise faster than the availability of funds.

He gave the example of someone who needs to make a payment at the beginning of the month, while the required funds are only available a few days later. In such conditions, KKI can be used to carry out the transaction first and payment is made when the funds are available.

“For example, if I can buy now, but the money only arrives on the 15th, then the due date is the 20th, that is enough. I use that (KKI) first,” he said.

Although it provides a payment deferral facility, Aswin stressed that KKI is not designed to encourage the public to increase debt or consumptive behaviour. According to him, KKI is more directed as a payment facility that provides flexibility for the public in meeting transaction needs.

“This is only a facility for payment deferral, so the public can use it as a medium to prioritise payments,” he said.

Therefore, the public is still expected to use KKI wisely. Its utilisation needs to be adjusted to the user’s ability to meet payment obligations on time.