Jakarta. Nankai University in China has conferred the title of Honorary Professor in Economics on Indonesia’s Finance Minsiter, Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, in recognition of his contributions to public finance, economic policy, and regional financial stability.

In a formal letter addressed to the Finance Ministry, Professor Xinming Li of Nankai University said the decision reflects Purbaya’s “exceptional leadership, outstanding contributions to international public finance, and steadfast commitment to economic development and financial sector stability within Southeast Asia.”

The university said the honorary appointment is intended to strengthen academic and strategic ties between China and Indonesia, particularly in the fields of economics, public policy, and finance.

Founded over a century ago, Nankai University described itself as a leading institution committed to global academic collaboration and research excellence. It said it expects the appointment to “inspire faculty and students” while deepening institutional cooperation.

As part of the honorary role, Purbaya would be invited to deliver a lecture, engage with researchers, and attend a formal conferment ceremony at a time suitable to his schedule.

The university’s international relations office is expected to coordinate further arrangements with his secretariat.

Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa currently serves as Indonesia’s finance minister in the Merah Putih Cabinet under President Prabowo Subianto, having been appointed on September 8, 2025, replacing Sri Mulyani Indrawati.

Prior to his current role, he served as chairman of Indonesia’s Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) from 2020. He also held several senior government positions, including deputy coordinating minister for maritime affairs and investment, as well as senior advisory roles across multiple coordinating ministries and the Presidential Staff Office.

Earlier in his career, he worked in the private sector as a senior economist and chief economist at Danareksa Research Institute, and later held executive roles within Danareksa Securities. He began his professional career as a field engineer at Schlumberger Overseas SA.

Purbaya holds a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB), and both a master’s degree and PhD in economics from Purdue University in the United States.