PT Bank Negara Indonesia (Persero) Tbk, or BNI, is entering its eighth decade as the nation's first state-owned bank. As BNI approaches its 80th anniversary on July 5, 2026, it is adopting the theme "Swadharma Bhakti Nagara" as a reflection of the company's journey in serving the nation, state, and people of Indonesia.
On this occasion, BNI also presented a special program entitled ‘Terus Ada, Ada Terus’ as a form of appreciation to loyal customers who use BNI products and services.
BNI President Director Putrama Wahju Setyawan said that BNI's 80-year journey reflects not only business growth but also the company's consistency in maintaining public trust and carrying out its role as a bank born from the spirit of nationalism.
"For eight decades, BNI has grown alongside Indonesia. Every step we take is driven by the spirit of providing greater benefits to the community, nation, and state," Putrama said in a written statement.
According to Putrama, BNI's ability to survive, grow, and remain relevant for eight decades rests on its Swadharma Bhakti Nagara values. These values serve as a compass for carrying out professional responsibilities, community service, and contributions to the nation's interests.
He explained that Swadharma reflects an awareness of carrying out responsibilities with discipline, integrity, and competence. Bhakti embodies a spirit of dedication to ensure that every business decision provides broader benefits to the community. Meanwhile, Nagara emphasizes BNI's focus on supporting national development and maintaining the stability of the Indonesian economy.
These values are embodied in BNI's work culture through three core behaviors: Seva, Karya, and Raksa. Seva emphasizes wholehearted service and building trust, Karya encourages professionalism and results-oriented behavior, and Raksa emphasizes the importance of integrity, good governance, and prudent risk management.
Putrama stated that this philosophy is BNI's foundation in facing changing times. Since its founding on July 5, 1946, amidst the struggle for independence, BNI has made historic contributions to the development of the Indonesian economy and banking industry.
BNI was founded by R.M. Margono Djojohadikusumo, a national economic figure who helped lay the initial foundations of the Republic of Indonesia's financial institutions. R.M. Margono Djojohadikusumo is also known as the grandfather of Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto.
As the founder of BNI, R.M. Margono Djojohadikusumo instilled a spirit of devotion to the nation that continues throughout the company's history. This spirit aligns with the Swadharma Bhakti Nagara values, which reflect BNI's identity as a bank born from a spirit of struggle and bearing the responsibility to serve the nation.
As the first bank owned by the Republic of Indonesia, BNI played a role in issuing the Republic of Indonesia Currency (ORI), a symbol of the nation's economic sovereignty. Since then, BNI has continued to grow, following Indonesia's journey from its early independence to becoming one of the largest economic powers in Southeast Asia.
Over its development, BNI has become present to meet the diverse needs of people across generations, from education and employment to business and investment, to retirement. The company has also expanded access to financial services through its branch network, digital services, and Agen46, which spans various regions across Indonesia.
BNI also continues to adapt to changing customer needs. From conventional, face-to-face banking services, BNI has evolved into a modern financial institution that integrates technology into various aspects of its services. This transformation remains rooted in the spirit of "Serving Wholeheartedly" to ensure that the innovations presented remain oriented toward customer convenience and needs.
"However, behind these various changes, one thing remains constant: BNI's spirit of devotion to the nation. Strategy and technology will continue to evolve with the times, but the values of Swadharma Bhakti Nagara will always be the compass that guides our every step in serving Indonesia," said Putrama.
In line with this spirit, the "Terus Ada, Ada Terus" program was launched to provide various offers and benefits to customers through BNI products and services. This program serves as a form of BNI's appreciation for its customers and affirms the company's continued presence at all stages of people's lives.
BNI emphasized that its eight decades of experience are crucial for strengthening its role as a national development partner, economic driver, and financial friend to the community. By embodying the values of Seva, Karya, and Raksa, BNI is committed to continuing its transformation and innovation to support inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
As BNI enters its 80th year, it declares its commitment to continue working alongside the Indonesian people by providing relevant services, opening opportunities, and adding value to future generations. The spirit of Swadharma Bhakti Nagara serves as the foundation for the company's continued growth alongside Indonesia.
*(BNI Document, the Book of 50 Tahun BNI, Melangkah ke Masa Depan dengan Kearifan Masa Lalu, 1996)