As the Lebaran 2025 festivities approach, Bank Indonesia (BI) is set to reopen its new money exchange services starting Sunday, March 23, 2025, at 10:00 AM Wita. This service, specifically tailored for those outside Java, including areas such as Makassar, will enable individuals to exchange old banknotes for new ones in preparation for the holiday celebrations.
The BI PINTAR platform promises an easier, more efficient approach for users looking to swap their money. Known for its user-friendly online process, it allows residents across Indonesia to bypass long queues typically associated with traditional money exchanges. As part of this initiative, users are encouraged to open multiple tabs on the PINTAR BI website to avoid technical difficulties during booking. Arnidia, a frequent user, shares that "If possible, don't just open one tab. If one gets stuck or errors out, try new tabs" – a tip that significantly helped her secure a booking for the cash exchange at the Kas Keliling at Masjid Istiqlal in Jakarta.
The demand for exchanging money surged as the closing period for the previous batch of exchanges was met with access hurdles. The service had previously faced technical issues on March 16, 2025, when the PINTAR BI website was inaccessible due to high traffic from eager users trying to book their exchanges. Responding to these challenges, BI announced adjustments to its exchange schedule, segmenting it into two distinct phases to better accommodate demands and alleviate user frustration.
According to reports from KOMPAS.com, the original last exchange period, initially slated for March 23, has been readjusted and will see the mobile cash exchange menu temporarily closed for maintenance on March 21 and 22.
Nonetheless, the doors will open again promptly at 9:00 AM WIB on the March 23, ready to assist many eager individuals keen on obtaining new bills as gifts during the festive season. The BI strategy aims to streamline services while acknowledging the high user engagement which has characterized the lead-up to Lebaran.
To exchange new bills through the BI PINTAR platform, users can follow these detailed steps:
- Visit the PINTAR BI Website: Open the BI PINTAR site at pintar.bi.go.id. Ensure a stable internet connection to facilitate a smoother experience.
- Select the Exchange Service: Choose the option for "Penukaran Uang Rupiah Melalui Kas Keliling" which pertains to cash exchange.
- Choose Location and Schedule: Select the province and city from which you wish to exchange the money, followed by available dates and times for your appointment.
- Submit Personal Information: Enter your personal details, including full name, National Identification Number (NIK), and your contact number.
- Confirm Your Order: After all information is filled correctly, your order confirmation will be processed, providing you with a QR code or electronic document to present during the exchange.
The maximum amount that can be exchanged per person is set at Rp4.3 million, with specified denominations allowed for the new notes:
- Uang Pecahan Besar (UPB): Total of Rp2 million, combining Rp50,000 (30 notes) and Rp20,000 (25 notes).
- Uang Pecahan Kecil (UPK): An aggregate of Rp2.3 million, distributed as Rp10,000 (100 notes), Rp5,000 (200 notes), Rp2,000 (100 notes), and Rp1,000 (100 notes).
BI emphasizes the importance of adherence to the terms set for the exchange. Participants must carry printed proof of their bookings and ensure that the amounts exchanged are in alignment with their reservations. Original identification documents, such as a KTP, may also be required upon arrival.
This digital transformation in service provision marks a significant convenience for the public. As highlighted in iNews.id, BI PINTAR not only enhances operational efficiency but also brings the process of exchanging new money closer to the people, echoing the core values of accessibility and transparency.
Bank Indonesia’s proactive adjustments to its new money exchange policies signify its engagement with the populace's needs and preferences while ensuring a smoother operational process for the upcoming festive season. Individuals are urged to leverage this online service to ensure their monetary gifts for Lebaran are prepared well in advance.
Finally, potential exchangers are encouraged to utilize the BI PINTAR service appropriately, ensuring they secure their slots early before the limited availability impacts their plans. The convenience and efficiency wrapped in the BI PINTAR promise an organized start to the Lebaran celebrations for many.
