Djarum Group Boss, Michael Bambang Hartono, to be Buried in Rembang
Jakarta, VIVA – Businessman and owner of the Djarum Group, Michael Bambang Hartono, breathed his last on Thursday, 19 March 2026, at 13:11 Singapore time. The passing of this Indonesia’s wealthiest individual has suddenly drawn public attention and brought deep sorrow to the business world in the country.
“M. Bambang Hartono, aged 86 years, has returned to the Father’s house in heaven on 19 March 2026, at 13:11 Singapore time,” as quoted from the Djarum Group’s announcement on Saturday, 21 March 2026.
According to the Djarum announcement, Michael Hartono’s body will first be laid in state from 20 to 22 March 2026 at the Grand Heave Funeral Home, Pluit, Jakarta. The lying in state will continue at the Djarum Sports Hall, Kudus, from 22 to 25 March 2026.
Before being transported to Kudus, the family will hold a Casket Closing Mass on 21 March 2026 at 19:00 WIB. Bambang Hartono will be buried at Codo Cemetery, Rembang, on 25 March 2026.
The family will also hold a Farewell Mass scheduled at 08:00 WIB on that day. Following that, departure from Kudus at 09:00 WIB towards the burial site. The funeral ceremony will be held at 10:40 WIB, before the burial process begins around 11:00 WIB.
During his lifetime, Bambang Hartono was known as a central figure in the development of the Djarum business, growing it into one of Indonesia’s largest cigarette companies. Together with his family, he expanded the business into the banking sector, technology, and other strategic investments.
Bambang Hartono’s success placed him as Indonesia’s richest person. Based on Forbes’ real-time data on Friday, 20 March 2026, Michael Hartono’s net worth reached US$1.2 billion or approximately Rp 319.9 trillion. This solidified the Djarum boss at 149th place as the world’s richest person.
Beyond the business world, Michael was also active in philanthropic activities through the Djarum Foundation, which focuses on education, sports, and the environment. He was also known as a professional bridge athlete and played a role in promoting the sport to be included in the 2018 Asian Games, where his team won a bronze medal.