Michael Hartono, Djarum Group Owner, Dies at 86

Michael Hartono, one of Indonesia’s wealthiest individuals and a surprising competitor on the bridge circuit, has died in Singapore at the age of 86. The news, confirmed by a statement from Grup Djarum on Thursday, March 19, 2026, marks the end of an era for the Hartono family and a loss for the Indonesian sporting community.

Hartono passed away at 1:15 PM Singapore time, according to Budi Darmawan, Corporate Communication Senior Manager for Grup Djarum. The family has released a statement expressing their grief, but details regarding funeral arrangements have not yet been disclosed. News of his passing was initially reported by the Thai Bridge Association, highlighting Hartono’s involvement in the sport.

While best known for his business empire, Hartono gained unexpected attention in recent years as a dedicated bridge player. He represented Indonesia in the sport at the 2018 Asian Games, becoming the oldest athlete to compete for the nation at that event. His participation wasn’t merely symbolic; Hartono and his team secured a bronze medal, contributing to Indonesia’s overall medal count.

The achievement earned Hartono a bonus of Rp 250 million (approximately $16,000 USD at the time) from then-President Joko Widodo, a testament to the national pride surrounding his performance. His foray into competitive bridge demonstrated a remarkable dedication to the game and a willingness to challenge himself at a high level, even in his eighties.

Hartono’s story is particularly compelling given his background. As the owner of Grup Djarum, a conglomerate with interests in tobacco, banking, and other sectors, he was a figure synonymous with Indonesian business success. His decision to dedicate time and energy to bridge, a sport requiring intense mental acuity and strategic thinking, offered a different dimension to his public persona.

The world of competitive bridge, while not always receiving mainstream media attention, demands a unique skillset. Players must possess exceptional memory, analytical abilities, and the capacity to anticipate their opponents’ moves. Hartono’s success at the Asian Games suggests he possessed these qualities in abundance, proving that age is no barrier to excelling in intellectually demanding pursuits.

The impact of Hartono’s passing extends beyond his family and business associates. His participation in the 2018 Asian Games inspired many in Indonesia, demonstrating the value of lifelong learning and the pursuit of passions regardless of age. His bronze medal win served as a source of national pride and highlighted the potential for success in a sport often overlooked by mainstream audiences.

While details surrounding his final days remain private, the outpouring of condolences from both the business and sporting communities underscores the respect and admiration Hartono commanded. His legacy will undoubtedly be remembered not only for his entrepreneurial achievements but also for his unexpected and inspiring journey as a competitive athlete.

The Indonesian sporting world has lost a unique figure. Michael Hartono’s story is a reminder that success can take many forms and that the pursuit of personal passions can enrich lives at any age. Further details regarding memorial arrangements are expected to be released in the coming days.