Malaysia’s second‑biggest bank, CIMB Group Holdings Bhd., told investors that Indonesia remains a prime target for expansion, even as the region’s largest economy faces a confidence slump. In a Bloomberg TV interview in Kuala Lumpur, CEO Novan Amirudin framed the move as a good time for long‑term play in Jakarta’s market for 2026 growth prospects.

Amirudin emphasized CIMB’s fully committed stance, noting that the bank sees Indonesia’s digital‑banking boom and demographic dividend as catalysts for sustainable returns. He said the group will pursue both organic growth and strategic mergers, positioning itself to capture market shares in retail and corporate lending amid tightening competition for the coming years and beyond.

The statement follows a regional downturn where investor sentiment has weakened after political turbulence and a sharp dip in commodity prices. By signaling entry now, CIMB taps an opportunity to acquire undervalued assets and leverage Indonesia’s 270‑million population, potentially boosting its earnings margin by up to 15% once synergies materialise in the next fiscal year.

Analysts note that CIMB’s move could pressure local banks to accelerate digitalisation and drive consolidation. Investors watching the Southeast Asian market will likely assess the bank’s exposure to Indonesia’s regulatory landscape and its capacity to navigate currency volatility. The firm’s announcement signals a shift in regional banking dynamics for stakeholders across the region in 2026.