Ignasius Jonan, the Railway Saviour, Returns to Government as Presidential Advisory Council Member

The name Ignasius Jonan has re-entered the government circle after President Prabowo Subianto appointed him as a member of the Presidential Advisory Council (Wantimpres).

Jonan is one of 26 members of the Council appointed through Presidential Decree (Keppres) Number 107/P regarding the Appointment of Membership of the Presidential Advisory Council of the Republic of Indonesia. The inauguration took place at the State Palace, Jakarta, on Friday, 2 October 2026.

However, Jonan was not present in person during the inauguration ceremony. Nevertheless, his name remains listed in the Presidential Decree for the appointment of the Council members.

Jonan’s return to government further extends the professional track record of the man born in Singapore on 21 June 1963. Before being entrusted with the role in the Presidential Advisory Council, Jonan has held numerous strategic positions, ranging from the financial sector and state-owned enterprises to two ministerial posts.

Dubbed the Railway Saviour

Ignasius Jonan’s name became widely known when he was appointed President Director of PT Kereta Api Indonesia (Persero) in 2009.

Jonan led KAI from February 2009 until October 2014. During this period, he was recognised as the figure who implemented major changes to national railway services.

Due to his achievements, Jonan earned the nickname “The Saviour of Indonesian Railways.” This title stuck to him because of the transformation he brought to KAI, including service improvements, enhanced orderliness, and changes to public service systems.

Jonan’s leadership period at KAI became a significant phase in his career before he entered the government as a minister.

Jonan’s leadership style is also known for being firm in upholding principles. The 7th President of Indonesia, Joko Widodo, once referred to Jonan as a “stubborn” figure, while former Vice President Jusuf Kalla also described him as a “headstrong” individual.

These descriptions refer to Jonan’s character, which is known for holding strong to principles and not easily changing his stance when facing issues related to regulations and the public interest.

From Finance to KAI

Before becoming known as the railway reformer, Jonan had extensive experience in the financial sector.

He previously built a career at Citigroup, holding several management positions. Jonan was also entrusted as the President Director of PT Bahana Pembinaan Usaha Indonesia and President Director of Citigroup Banking Investment.