Murdaya Poo, Indonesian Business Tycoon and Philanthropist, Dies at 79
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JAKARTA, investortrust.id — Indonesian business magnate Murdaya Poo, founder of one of the country’s largest privately held conglomerates, has died at the age of 79 on Monday, April 7, 2025. Known for his pioneering role in developing luxury real estate and shopping malls in Jakarta, his passing marks the end of an era in Indonesia’s business and political landscape.
Murdaya Widyawimarta Poo, who also served as Chair of the Supervisory Board of the Central Board of the Indonesian Buddhist Representatives Council, or DPP Walubi, was remembered with deep condolences from the organization. His death was confirmed through the official Instagram account of DPP Walubi. “Sabbe sankhara anicca. The Central Board of the Indonesian Buddhist Representatives expresses its deepest condolences for the passing of Mr. Murdaya Widyawimarta Po. May his kindness in life bring him to a blissful rebirth,” the post read.
Born in Blitar, East Java, on January 12, 1946, Murdaya Poo rose from humble beginnings to become a towering figure in Indonesia’s business world. In 1972, he began his career in the construction sector. Two decades later, he founded Central Cipta Murdaya Group, which expanded into engineering, palm oil, plywood, and other industrial sectors. Among his landmark achievements was the development of Jakarta International Expo, the capital’s largest convention center.
Murdaya Poo also held a significant stake in PT Metropolitan Kentjana Tbk, or MKPI, a real estate developer that operates prestigious shopping malls and residential complexes, including the iconic Pondok Indah Mall in South Jakarta.
As of March 2023, Forbes estimated his net worth at $1.2 billion, ranking him 37th richest in Indonesia and 2,324th globally. His wealth reflected not only his business acumen but also his strategic investments across multiple industries.
Beyond business, Murdaya Poo was actively involved in politics. He joined the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle, known as PDIP, in 1998. He later served as the party's treasurer and branch leader, and was elected as a member of the House of Representatives for the 2004–2009 legislative term, representing Jakarta.
Murdaya Poo was married to Siti Hartati Murdaya, a fellow entrepreneur and former politician. Together, they raised four children—Prajna, Metta, Upekkha, and Karuna—whose names reflect Buddhist virtues: Prajna means wisdom, Metta means loving-kindness, Upekkha means equanimity, and Karuna means compassion.