Utilizing PKPU for Business Stability and Debt Resolution

Audio Podcast:

Below is an AI generated discussion of the topic summary. For any clarity or accuracy please contact us here.

00:00 / 00:00

The Penundaan Kewajiban Pembayaran Utang (PKPU) process, as governed under Law No. 37 of 2004 on Bankruptcy and Suspension of Debt Payment Obligations, is a legal mechanism in Indonesia designed to provide relief to debtors facing financial difficulties. This law offers a structured framework for companies to negotiate debt repayment arrangements with creditors, aiming to prevent bankruptcy and enable businesses to continue operations while addressing outstanding obligations.

What is PKPU?

PKPU allows businesses to request temporary relief from debt payments, enabling negotiations with creditors for mutually agreeable repayment terms that help avert formal bankruptcy proceedings while maintaining business continuity. This process provides companies the opportunity to propose a structured repayment plan aligned with their financial capacity and objectives.

Key Elements of PKPU

Eligibility for PKPU Application
Any debtor with at least two creditors can apply for PKPU. To be eligible, the debtor must demonstrate a legitimate inability to meet its debt obligations due to economic challenges. The court may grant a PKPU if it finds the request grounded in the debtor’s financial state.
Stages of PKPU
PKPU encompasses two main stages:
- Temporary PKPU (PKPU Sementara): Granted initially for 45 days, the court evaluates whether there is a genuine effort and potential to restructure debt. During this period, the debtor is protected from creditor claims, enabling a thorough restructuring assessment.
- Permanent PKPU (PKPU Tetap): If the restructuring plan shows promise, the PKPU can extend up to 270 days. In this phase, a comprehensive debt settlement or repayment strategy is presented for creditor approval.

The PKPU Process: Step-by-Step

Submission and Initial Hearing
A PKPU request is filed at the Commercial Court, with a hearing scheduled within 20 days. Both debtor and creditor must present their case, after which the court assesses the legitimacy of the PKPU application.
Appointment of Administrators
Upon approval, the court appoints administrators to oversee the debtor’s financial activities during the PKPU period. These administrators collaborate with a supervising judge to ensure compliance, manage operations, and protect creditors’ rights.
Formulation of Debt Settlement Plan
The debtor, under the supervision of administrators, formulates a debt repayment plan. This plan details the debtor’s proposed repayment terms and conditions, including schedules, payment amounts, and potential asset reorganization to ensure effective debt clearance.
Creditors’ Vote and Court Decision
The PKPU process concludes with a creditor meeting to vote on the proposed repayment plan. A majority of creditors must agree to the terms for the PKPU to succeed; otherwise, bankruptcy proceedings may follow. The court then reviews and formalizes the agreement, giving it legal effect.

Implications for Businesses

Protection Against Liquidation: It offers a lifeline to companies facing financial hurdles by shielding them from forced liquidation, allowing business continuity.
Structured Debt Settlement: Through PKPU, debtors can negotiate a structured settlement that often results in reduced or restructured debt obligations.
Impact on Creditors: For creditors, PKPU ensures a structured pathway to recovering debts, reducing the risk of complete loss due to a debtor’s financial collapse. By participating in the PKPU process, creditors can influence repayment terms, ensuring their interests are considered in the final agreement.

Leveraging PKPU for Business Stability

The PKPU process offers a valuable solution for businesses navigating financial challenges. By following a structured legal process, PKPU enables companies to explore debt settlement options that protect both business operations and creditor interests. This option not only supports debtors but also ensures that creditors have a fair opportunity to recover their dues. For investors and business executives, understanding PKPU is essential in making informed decisions about financial risks and legal safeguards in Indonesia’s evolving market.

At Putranto Alliance, we offer a full range of services to help businesses and individuals manage the complexities of bankruptcy, including:

Receiver and Administrator Service
Liquidation Service

Discover Our Liquidation Service

How to Ensure Your Business is BPOM Certified in Indonesia

23/12/2024

Businesses in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetics industries must ensure they have the proper BPOM license. This certification not only guarantees compliance with Indonesian standards but also protects consumer safety and opens doors to international markets.

Expanding Market Entry in Indonesia with PT PMA

22/09/2025

Putranto Alliance provides comprehensive guidance for foreign investors to establish and manage a PT PMA in Indonesia, ensuring a smooth process.

SLF Certificate Indonesia: Legal Use of Buildings

22/07/2025

In Indonesia, the SLF (Sertifikat Laik Fungsi) is a mandatory certificate confirming a building’s safety, functionality, and readiness for use, required before legal occupancy or operation.