Marina Budiman stands as a beacon of innovation and resilience in Indonesia's technological sphere. As an Indonesian technology billionaire, her journey from aspiring banker to co-founding leading tech enterprises exemplifies visionary leadership and entrepreneurial spirit.​

Early Life and Transition into Technology

Born in Jakarta, Indonesia, in 1961, Marina Budiman pursued a Bachelor of Arts in Economics at the University of Toronto. Initially envisioning a career in banking, she returned to Indonesia and secured a position at Bank Bali in 1985. It was here that Marina's path took an unexpected turn. Tasked with implementing new software systems, she discovered a profound interest in technology's potential to revolutionize business operations. This pivotal experience ignited her passion for the tech industry, steering her away from traditional banking roles.

Entrepreneurial Ventures and Milestones

Marina's foray into entrepreneurship began in 1989 when she joined Sigma Cipta Caraka, an IT solutions firm co-founded with Otto Toto Sugiri and former Bank Bali colleagues. Her tenure at Sigma Cipta Caraka provided invaluable insights into the burgeoning tech landscape. In 1994, seizing the opportunity to bridge Indonesia's connectivity gap, Marina co-founded Indonet, the nation's first internet service provider. This groundbreaking venture played a crucial role in introducing Indonesians to the internet, laying the foundation for the country's digital evolution.​

Recognizing the escalating need for robust digital infrastructure, Marina co-established DCI Indonesia in 2011 alongside Otto Toto Sugiri and Han Arming Hanafia. As the nation's premier Tier IV data center, DCI Indonesia set new standards in reliability and security. Under Marina's stewardship as President Commissioner, the company expanded to operate 15 data center buildings with a total capacity of 200 megawatts. This strategic growth solidified DCI's dominance, capturing over 50% of Indonesia's data center market share.​

Achievements and Industry Recognition

Marina Budiman's contributions have garnered significant acclaim. In 2021, Forbes included her in the "Asia's Power Businesswomen" list, acknowledging her influential role in the tech sector. By March 2025, Forbes estimated her net worth at $4.6 billion, underscoring her status as a leading Indonesian technology billionaire. Marina attributes her success to the dynamic nature of the tech industry, emphasizing the constant evolution and rapid innovation that keep the sector perpetually engaging.

Impact on Indonesia's Digital Transformation

Marina's ventures have been instrumental in propelling Indonesia's digital transformation. Indonet's pioneering efforts democratized internet access, while DCI Indonesia's state-of-the-art facilities have provided the critical infrastructure necessary for the proliferation of e-commerce, fintech, and cloud computing services. These contributions have not only advanced technological adoption but have also stimulated economic growth and positioned Indonesia as a competitive player in the global digital arena.​

Leadership Philosophy and Legacy

Marina's leadership is characterized by a commitment to innovation, strategic foresight, and fostering collaborative partnerships. Her journey reflects a dedication to identifying emerging trends and translating them into successful enterprises. Beyond her corporate achievements, Marina serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women in technology, demonstrating that with vision and perseverance, barriers can be transformed into opportunities.​

As Indonesia continues its trajectory toward a digitally driven economy, Marina Budiman's legacy endures as a testament to the transformative power of technology and the pivotal role of visionary leadership in shaping the future.