Jakarta. Former Indonesian Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati said she was honored to be appointed to the governing board of the Gates Foundation, a global philanthropic organization founded by Bill Gates. The appointment took effect on Monday.

Sri Mulyani said her entry comes at a pivotal moment for the foundation as it enters a critical phase in delivering its global mission over the next two decades.

“With 20 years to make as much impact as possible for those who need it most, I am honored to join the Gates Foundation board to contribute at this pivotal moment filled with both challenges and opportunities,” Sri Mulyani said in a statement received by the B-Universe team on Tuesday.

She added that her engagement with the Gates Foundation began nearly a decade ago through various collaborations, including efforts to explore how new technologies can expand opportunities and drive inclusive and sustainable development.

“I am deeply motivated to bring my experience in global finance, economic policy, and good governance into these critical efforts to save lives and improve livelihoods,” she said.

Sri Mulyani previously served as managing director and chief operating officer of the World Bank and was Indonesia’s first female finance minister. She is widely recognized as a globally respected economist who has played a key role in leading financial policy reforms and promoting inclusive economic growth.

Gates Foundation Chief Executive Officer and governing board member Mark Suzman welcomed her appointment, calling her experience a major asset for the foundation.

“Sri Mulyani brings deep experience in shaping equitable economic outcomes, expertise that is essential to achieving the foundation’s long-term goals,” Suzman said. “Her leadership will help ensure that our resources continue to be used to expand opportunity, promote inclusive economic growth, and improve outcomes for communities around the world.”

As a governing board member, Sri Mulyani will join other global figures including Ashish Dhawan, Dr. Helene Gayle, Strive Masiyiwa, Thomas J. Tierney, Mark Suzman, and Bill Gates.

Meanwhile, another board member, Baroness Nemat (Minouche) Shafik, is currently on temporary leave as she serves as chief economic adviser to British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.