Global Footprint: PM Modi Announces IIM Bangalore’s First International Campus in Indonesia

In a landmark moment for Indian higher education, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIM Bangalore) is setting up its first-ever international campus in Indonesia.

The announcement was made on July 7, 2026, during PM Modi’s official visit to Jakarta, following successful bilateral talks with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto. This historic move makes IIM Bangalore the second IIM to expand globally, reinforcing India’s reputation as a premium global knowledge partner.

For management aspirants and global candidates, this opens up massive avenues for cross-border networking, modern learning, and internationally recognized credentials.

Strategic Location: Singhasari SEZ, Malang

The inaugural overseas campus will be strategically located in the Singhasari Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Malang, East Java. Notably, this is Indonesia’s first specialized economic zone focused entirely on the digital economy, technology, and higher education.

To bring this project to life, IIM Bangalore has partnered with PT Intelegensia Grahatama (PT IGT), the development entity managing the Singhasari SEZ. By setting up a base here, IIMB aligns itself directly with an ecosystem thriving on innovation, technology, and corporate growth.

A Phased Rollout for Students and Professionals

To ensure smooth operational success and high academic standards, IIM Bangalore will roll out its academic portfolio in two distinct phases:

Phase 1: Executive Education Programmes (EEPs)

The initial phase will focus heavily on senior executives, business leaders, and public sector professionals. It is designed to upskill local talent and provide immediate corporate training solutions to businesses operating in Southeast Asia.

Phase 2: Degree-Granting Management Programmes

Following the successful implementation of the executive phase over the first two years, the campus will transition to full-fledged, degree-granting management programs, including traditional post-graduate diplomas and MBAs.

Curriculum Tailored for Future Leaders

The curriculum at the Indonesia campus is designed specifically to address the evolving complexities of the modern global economy. Rather than traditional corporate theory, the academic focus will highlight five pillars of the modern business landscape:

• Global Supply Chains: Navigating shifting geopolitical risks and logistical networks.

• Digital Transformation: Leading technology adoption across corporate sectors.

• Artificial Intelligence (AI): Mastering data analytics and AI-driven business strategies.

• Climate and Sustainability: Integrating eco-friendly initiatives into standard business models.

• Healthcare Management: Managing global healthcare systems and pharmaceutical markets.

What This Means for Global Candidates and ASEAN Youth

The establishment of this international campus brings incredible benefits for global business students, specifically across the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region:

• Affordable World-Class Education: Students in Southeast Asia can now access IIM Bangalore’s world-renowned pedagogy without the financial and logistical burden of moving to India.

• Global Immersion Opportunities: Enrolled students will have unique opportunities to visit the main Bengaluru campus through short-term academic immersion programs, providing exposure to India’s bustling tech and startup ecosystem.

• An Elite Network: Graduates will gain access to IIM Bangalore’s extensive, elite global alumni network, opening up employment opportunities across both South and Southeast Asia.

Aligning with India’s NEP 2020 Vision

This strategic expansion aligns perfectly with India’s National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which strongly advocates for the internationalization of domestic higher education.

Following the successful overseas footprints of IIM Ahmedabad in Dubai, IIT Delhi in Abu Dhabi, and IIT Madras in Zanzibar, IIM Bangalore’s entry into Indonesia signals a new chapter in India’s soft power diplomacy. It builds an educational bridge across the Indo-Pacific, creating a highly capable, future-ready talent pool.

Written by Simran

Simran is currently working as a Senior Content Writer at Findmycollege , where she creates engaging and research-driven learning resources for students. She has completed her Graduation in Journalism from Delhi University. With 4 years of experience in the EdTech industry, she has previously contributed to leading platforms like Leverage Edu and Aakash. Her expertise lies in simplifying Engineering and Medical entrance exam content to guide aspirants in their preparation journey. Beyond writing, Simran enjoys sketching, watching movies, and finding creative inspiration in everyday life.

View all posts →