Ilham Oktafian, Jakarta – A proposal by Indonesia's anti-money laundering watchdog to block dormant bank accounts has drawn scrutiny from lawmakers, who warn that the policy could cause confusion and unrest among the public despite its good intentions.

The Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Center (PPATK) recently announced plans to block bank accounts that have shown no activity for three to twelve months, citing concerns over the widespread misuse of such accounts for illegal transactions. However, House of Representatives Commission III member Hinca Panjaitan called the move highly sensitive.

"PPATK may have good intentions, but without complete information, this is a very delicate issue," Hinca told reporters in Jakarta on Monday.

Hinca acknowledged the policy may aim to prevent dormant accounts from being used for financial crimes such as money laundering. But he also warned it could spark public concern, particularly among account holders who intentionally leave their money untouched.

"If I didn't make any deposits or withdrawals, that's still a form of public trust in the banking system," Hinca said. He argued that people should not be penalized for simply letting their money sit idle.

Commission III plans to summon PPATK for a formal explanation once the legislative recess ends. In the meantime, Hinca urged the agency to proactively clarify the plan to the public.

"I hope PPATK can explain the background and objectives openly, so people don't misunderstand," he said.

PPATK had earlier stated on its official Instagram account that many dormant accounts were being exploited for illegal activity, including the sale and purchase of bank accounts and money laundering. "Accounts that have been inactive for 3 to 12 months will be blocked," the post read.

PPATK Head Ivan Yustiavandana previously revealed that tens of thousands of bank accounts were used to facilitate illegal online gambling transactions. In 2024 alone, more than 28,000 such accounts were identified.

Aside from gambling, third-party accounts have also been used to store funds derived from other criminal activities, including fraud, drug trafficking, and other illicit operations.

Source: https://jakartaglobe.id/news/antimoney-laundering-agency-mulls-blocking-dormant-bank-account