Rahmat Hidayat – Indonesian Deputy House Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad urged the public to convert U.S. dollar holdings into rupiah, expressing confidence that government measures planned for the coming days will strengthen the national currency and support broader financial market stability.
Speaking at Indonesia's parliamentary complex in Jakarta on Thursday, Dasco said the government has prepared a series of policy initiatives aimed at boosting the rupiah's value, although he did not disclose specific details.
"I also received information from the government that this week and in the coming period there will be special strategies implemented. From the information I have heard, I am confident those measures will make the rupiah strengthen further," Dasco said.
His comments come as Indonesia's financial markets show signs of recovery following recent volatility. The rupiah and the Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG), the benchmark Indonesian stock index, have both posted gains in recent days.
Dasco attributed the improvement partly to growing public and investor confidence in the government's economic management.
"Yes, I think confidence in the government is also becoming stronger, and that is influencing the market as well as supporting the strengthening of the rupiah," he said.
The senior lawmaker, who also serves as executive chairman of the Gerindra Party, said individuals holding U.S. dollars in anticipation of further gains may face losses if the rupiah continues to appreciate.
He encouraged the public to consider exchanging their dollar holdings before the expected strengthening occurs.
"Perhaps for those who are currently holding dollars in the hope of gaining more profit, it would be better to release those dollars. If the rupiah strengthens next week, it would be unfortunate to still be holding dollars. That is my advice," Dasco said.
The remarks highlight the government's efforts to reinforce confidence in Southeast Asia's largest economy as policymakers seek to maintain currency stability amid evolving global financial conditions.
Investors and market participants are expected to closely monitor upcoming government measures for indications of how authorities intend to support the rupiah and sustain recent market gains.