The Branchless Banking Services Program as Part of Inclusive Finance (Laku Pandai) through BNI Agen46 owned by PT Bank Negara Indonesia (Persero) Tbk or BNI provides access to banking services for people in island areas, including Lembeh Island, Bitung, North Sulawesi, which have previously had limited access to bank branches.
In areas that require sea transportation, the presence of BNI Agen46 makes it easier for residents to conduct financial transactions without having to cross to the city center. Services available include account opening, cash deposits and withdrawals, transfers, bill payments, and access to financing such as People's Business Credit (KUR).
BNI Corporate Secretary Okki Rushartomo said that BNI Agen46 is an extension of BNI in expanding access to financial services to remote, outermost, and underdeveloped areas.
"BNI is committed to continuously expanding the reach of inclusive and sustainable financial services, so that people in various remote areas can experience the benefits of banking services without facing distance and cost barriers," said Okki in his written statement.
According to him, digital technology support and a widespread agent network enable people to conduct financial transactions more quickly and securely. In addition to improving financial literacy and inclusion, this program also stimulates local economic growth by opening new business opportunities at the community level.
Ratti Manopo, one of BNI's Agen46 partners on Lembeh Island, said she felt the direct benefits of the program. In addition to serving as a banking service agent at her grocery store, she also received KUR financing to expand her business.
"The benefits of being a BNI Agen46 member are truly tangible. I applied for a KUR loan from BNI and was approved. I immediately used the capital to expand my business. Praise God, everything went well," said Ratti.
The additional capital was used to increase inventory and expand the business, thereby boosting sales turnover. The Agen46 presence in the store has also attracted increasing numbers of visitors seeking convenient banking transactions.
Other residents, such as Andre, a nutmeg trader on Lembeh Island, have experienced similar benefits. He said he was helped by being able to deposit his sales proceeds safely without having to travel long distances to a bank branch. "Usually, I deposited the money from my sales into my account through Mrs. Ratti," he said.
Local farmer Delkiu Samalang also found Agen46's services more accessible. "BNI agents are closer, and people are willing to reach out to them. Mrs. Ratti is also honest, so we help each other," he said.
The presence of BNI Agen46 on Lembeh Island shows that access to banking services is now more equitable even in island regions. Through a community-based approach and support for productive financing, BNI hopes financial inclusion can become the foundation for sustainable economic empowerment.