Jakarta. Pegadaian has marked a new milestone in its business journey by officially expanding into the international market. As part of its 125th anniversary celebration, the Indonesian financial services company inaugurated its first overseas branch, Pegadaian Timor-Leste Branch, located at Grand Diocese Colmera Complex, Av. Pres. Nicolau Lobato, Rai Nain, Colmera, Vera Cruz, Dili, Timor-Leste, on March 30, 2026.

The strategic expansion forms part of Pegadaian's commitment, alongside the BRI Group's Ultra Micro (UMi) Holding, to broaden access to inclusive financial services across borders. Pegadaian's presence in Timor-Leste aims to help build an integrated financial ecosystem, complementing the services of Bank Rakyat Indonesia, which has operated in the country since 2017, while serving as a strategic partner in supporting grassroots economic growth.

Just two months after commencing operations, Pegadaian's international business in Timor-Leste has shown strong growth momentum. Its fast, secure, and accessible financing solutions have received an enthusiastic response from local communities, particularly micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Dili.

The strong market reception is reflected in the branch's performance through May 2026. Within its first two months of operation, Pegadaian processed more than 600 pawn loan transactions, generating total financing turnover of $329,882. The early results demonstrate the relevance of Pegadaian's pawn-based business model in addressing the short-term liquidity needs of Timor-Leste's population without burdensome procedures.

As part of its social commitment, Pegadaian also launched its Gadai Peduli program in Timor-Leste on April 1, 2026, coinciding with the company's 125th anniversary. The initiative is designed to ease the financial burden of communities facing urgent needs such as education and healthcare expenses.

Under the program, borrowers can access interest-free loans for up to two months with financing limits of up to $100. Public enthusiasm for the initiative has been strong, with total disbursements reaching $6,406 by the end of May 2026.

Through the program, Pegadaian aims not only to pursue business profitability but also to actively contribute to the development of an inclusive financial ecosystem and support community economic empowerment in Timor-Leste.

Pegadaian President Director Damar Latri Setiawan said the successful launch and early performance in Dili represent an initial step toward the company's long-term vision of becoming a leading player in the regional pawn and gold industry.

"Pegadaian's presence in Timor-Leste carries a broader mission of delivering wholehearted service while improving financial literacy and inclusion. We are not only offering conventional pawn products, but also continuing to innovate and introduce a diversified range of products tailored to the characteristics and needs of the local community," Damar said.

Looking ahead, Pegadaian is committed to maintaining the operational stability of its Timor-Leste branch and ensuring a positive contribution alongside BRI Group. The success in Timor-Leste is also expected to serve as a strategic blueprint for exploring expansion opportunities in other potential ASEAN markets in the future.