IndonesianTalk.com — IMI marks 120 years as industry figures call for stronger role in national automotive transformation
The Indonesian Motor Association (IMI) marked its 120th anniversary on March 27, with industry leaders and stakeholders highlighting the organization’s historic role and urging continued contributions to the country’s automotive future.
Founded from the establishment of the Javache Motor Club in Semarang in 1906, IMI has evolved into one of Indonesia’s oldest automotive institutions, playing a key role in motorsport development, community building and industry advancement.
IMI chairman Moreno Soeprapto, in a post on his official Instagram account on Saturday, reflected on the organization’s long journey.
“120 years is not merely a number, but a long journey filled with dedication, spirit and history in Indonesia’s automotive world,” he wrote, alongside archival images documenting IMI’s leadership across different eras.
Moreno, elected during the organization’s 10th National Congress in Yogyakarta in September 2025, noted that IMI has consistently been both a witness and a driving force in the evolution of the national automotive sector.
“From the early days of motor vehicles, through periods of struggle, to today’s innovation-driven era, IMI has produced prominent figures who have achieved excellence, built communities and upheld sportsmanship both on the track and on the road,” he said.
The former national racer and legislator, who succeeded Bambang Soesatyo, added that IMI would continue focusing on motorsport development, mobility and sport tourism as part of its forward-looking agenda.
Separately, IMI figure Prasetyo Edi Marsudi also expressed pride in the organization’s legacy via his X account, emphasizing its contributions ranging from athlete development to cross-sector collaboration.
“From its origins in 1906 to becoming IMI today, this long journey continues to deliver tangible contributions to national automotive development,” he wrote.
Meanwhile, Ismeth Wibowo, commissioner of electric vehicle manufacturer PT Sunra Asia Pacific Hi-Tech, congratulated IMI on its milestone and underscored the importance of aligning the automotive sector with Indonesia’s energy transition goals.
“Happy 120th anniversary to IMI. May it continue to contribute to the advancement of the national automotive industry,” said Ismeth, a grandson of Indonesia’s first IMI chairman, Juanda Kartawidjaja.
He voiced support for President Prabowo Subianto’s plan to convert up to 125 million gasoline-powered motorcycles into electric vehicles, arguing that the policy could reduce Indonesia’s dependence on imported fuel.
“Amid the current fuel crisis, partly triggered by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, the conversion of gasoline motorcycles into electric ones is a strategic step,” he said.
The Center of Economic and Law Studies (Celios) has also backed the initiative, citing its potential to improve energy efficiency and stimulate local economic growth.
Celios executive director Bhima Yudhistira said the program could deliver dual benefits by reducing fuel consumption while strengthening small businesses, particularly if independent workshops are involved in the conversion process.
“Local workshops, including those in rural areas, can be trained and equipped with conversion kits,” he said, adding that broader participation would amplify the program’s economic multiplier effect.
As IMI enters its second century, stakeholders agree that its role will remain pivotal—not only in motorsport governance but also in supporting Indonesia’s transition toward a more sustainable and competitive automotive industry.
