While major cities like Jakarta and Bali often steal the spotlight when it comes to investment, recent data tells a different story. Central Sulawesi has quietly emerged as one of the most attractive destinations for foreign direct investment in Indonesia, surpassing even the country’s top urban centers in Q2 2025.
According to the Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming/Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM), investment realization across Indonesia during the second quarter of 2025 reached Rp477.7 trillion, growing 11.5% compared to the same period last year. Foreign direct investment (FDI) contributed Rp202.2 trillion, or 42.3% of the total.
Among all regions, Central Sulawesi stood out, attracting US$1.8 billion in foreign capital. Minister of Investment Rosan P. Roeslani explained that the province has become a magnet for investors thanks to its leading industries. “Central Sulawesi turns out to be the largest hub for basic metal or metal goods industries, followed by mining, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals,” said Rosan during a press conference on Tuesday, July 29.
The shift in investor focus is not without reason. “Investment that comes in tends to align with the strengths and characteristics of each region,” Rosan added. In the case of Central Sulawesi, its abundant natural resources and industrial development potential have made it highly appealing.
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Following closely behind was West Java, which also secured US$1.8 billion in FDI. DKI Jakarta ranked third with US$1.4 billion, while North Maluku and Central Java followed with US$1.1 billion and US$700 million, respectively.
The data also highlighted a broader trend of investment distribution shifting away from traditionally dominant areas like Java. This diversification suggests a more balanced national economic development and opens up opportunities for infrastructure growth, employment, and industrial expansion in emerging regions.
As Indonesia continues to push for equitable regional development, Central Sulawesi’s rise could serve as a model for how resource-based provinces can draw substantial foreign interest—provided their advantages are matched by targeted policy and support.
