Paying Respects at Michael Bambang Hartono's Resting Place, Central Java Governor: We Have Lost a National Figure
KUDUS – Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi paid respects at the resting place of the late Michael Bambang Hartono, owner of PT Djarum, at the PB Djarum Sports Hall in Jati, Kudus Regency, on Tuesday (24/3/2026). According to Luthfi, with Bambang Hartono’s passing, Indonesia has not only lost a business figure but also a national icon.
Upon visiting the resting place at PB Djarum Sports Hall, Luthfi was accompanied by Kudus Mayor Sam’ani Intakoris and Deputy Mayor Bellinda Putri Sabrina. They were received by Bambang Hartono’s younger brother, Robert Budi Hartono.
On that occasion, Luthfi conveyed his condolences over Bambang Hartono’s death. “As the Governor of Central Java, together with the entire community, especially in the Kudus area, I extend our deepest condolences. May his good deeds be accepted,” he said.
He admitted feeling a deep sense of loss, considering the significant contributions made by the late Bambang Hartono. Not only to the business world but also to the people of Central Java. “We are greatly mourning the loss of a national figure, a national entrepreneur from our region. This is a profound sorrow,” Luthfi stated.
Luthfi then mentioned various social programmes supported by Djarum. For example, the recent free homecoming programme, in which Djarum was one of the supporters.
“Since I became Governor today, through the Regent, the free homecoming programme is also supported by Djarum. Including the development of the green economy, Djarum has become one of the global leaders,” Luthfi said.
On Tuesday, hundreds of mourners from various circles visited the PB Djarum Sports Hall. They came there to pray and pay their final respects to Michael Bambang Hartono.
Bambang Hartono passed away in Singapore on Thursday (19/3/2026). Before his death, he had been ill due to advanced age. Bambang passed away at the age of 86.
From Singapore, Bambang Hartono’s body was initially laid to rest at Grand Heaven Jakarta from 20-22 March 2026. The body was then laid to rest again at PB Djarum Sports Hall in Jati, Kudus, from 22-25 March 2026. Bambang is scheduled to be buried in Rembang on Wednesday (25/3/2026).
As the owner of Djarum Group, Bambang Hartono was one of Indonesia’s richest entrepreneurs. Although his business expanded into various sectors, Bambang was known as a philanthropist and sports enthusiast. Through PB Djarum, he contributed to the emergence of national badminton athletes who achieved success on the world stage.
PT Djarum also has the Djarum Foundation, which runs various social programmes in education, the environment, including culture.