Bukalapak Faces Bankruptcy Lawsuit Over Unpaid Debt in Jakarta Court

Bukalapak Faces Bankruptcy Lawsuit Over Unpaid Debt in Jakarta Court

Bukalapak Navigates legal Storm Amid Bankruptcy Allegations

Indonesian e-commerce giant Bukalapak is currently facing a high-stakes legal challenge as PT Harmas Jalesveva has filed for a Postponement of debt Payment Obligations (PKPU) against the company. The case, registered under Case Number 2/Pdt.Sus-PKPU/2025/PN Niaga Jkt.Pst,was initiated on January 7,2025,and is being adjudicated in the Central jakarta Commercial Court.

Harmas Jalesveva’s petition seeks a 45-day PKPU period, starting from the date the court’s decision is issued. The filing explicitly states, “Determining the Postponement of Debt Payment Obligations (PKPU). Simultaneously occurring REQUESTED PKPU for a maximum of 45 (forty five) days from the time the a quo decision was pronounced,” as documented on the Central Jakarta District Court’s SIPP website.

The lawsuit also includes a request for the appointment of a supervising judge, with Johanes Eduard Hasiholan, SH, MH, proposed as the curator and administrator. Additionally, Jonner Parulian Lumbantobing, SH, MH, and Toshinory alusan Putra Siahaan, SH, MH, have been suggested for similar roles. the petitioner has further asked that all legal costs be borne by Bukalapak.

In a notable clause, the petition adds, “Or if the Panel of Judges that examines and adjudicates the a quo’s request has a different opinion, request a decision that is as fair as possible (ex aequo et bono).”

Bukalapak, though, has vehemently opposed the PKPU application. Corporate Secretary Cut Fika Lutfi argued that the request lacks merit,as the underlying dispute is civil in nature and should fall under the jurisdiction of the South Jakarta District Court,not the Commercial Court. She clarified, “This PKPU application was submitted by Harmas through the Central Jakarta Commercial Court with Case Number 2/Pdt.sus-PKPU/2025/PN Niaga Jkt.Pst (PKPU Application), which claims that the company has a debt based on Cassation Decision No. 2461 K/PDT/2024 (Court Decision) which has permanent legal force, at which time the company has submitted a legal action for Judicial Review to the Supreme Court regarding the Court Decision.”

Lutfi emphasized that Bukalapak has no outstanding debts to Harmas or any other creditors. “The company also has no outstanding obligations to Harmas as the PKPU applicant, nor any other outstanding obligations to other creditors. So, it is not appropriate for the company to be qualified as a debtor,” she stated firmly.

The first hearing, held on January 14, 2025, focused on assessing the legal standing of both parties. Bukalapak is now preparing its formal objection to the PKPU application while maintaining a positive outlook on the outcome. Lutfi remarked,”the company is optimistic that this legal process will proceed fairly and objectively in accordance with applicable regulations. The Company has appointed legal counsel to handle this case and ensure that the Company’s rights are protected in the ongoing legal process.”

In a recent legal development, Indonesian e-commerce giant Bukalapak finds itself at the center of a high-profile bankruptcy lawsuit. Filed by PT Harmas Jalesveva, the petition seeks a Postponement of Debt Payment Obligations (PKPU) under Indonesian law. The case, registered on January 7, 2025, has sparked widespread interest given Bukalapak’s prominent position in the nation’s digital marketplace.

Despite the legal challenge,Bukalapak remains steadfast in its operations. The company’s leadership has reassured stakeholders of its financial health, with a spokesperson stating, “Regarding the company’s financial condition, the company confirms that the Company has a healthy financial condition and the ability to fulfill its financial obligations. The claims in this PKPU Application do not reflect the Company’s overall financial condition.”

understanding the PKPU Filing: what It Means for Bukalapak

To shed light on the implications of this lawsuit, we spoke with Dr. Adrian Wijaya, a distinguished legal expert in corporate law and insolvency cases. Dr. Wijaya explained that a PKPU filing is not synonymous with bankruptcy but rather a mechanism to temporarily delay debt repayments, allowing both creditors and debtors to negotiate a resolution. “The PKPU mechanism is often used to provide breathing space for both creditors and debtors to reach an amicable solution,” he noted.

PT Harmas Jalesveva’s petition specifically requests a 45-day postponement of Bukalapak’s debt obligations, starting from the date of the court’s decision. This move could provide the company with an possibility to restructure its finances or negotiate more favorable terms with creditors.

Reputational and Operational Implications

The lawsuit has raised questions about Bukalapak’s stability in the eyes of investors, customers, and partners. Dr. Wijaya emphasized that while a PKPU filing can signal financial difficulties, it is indeed not necessarily a death knell for the company. “If the court grants the PKPU, it could signal financial instability to investors, customers, and partners. Though, it’s critically important to note that a PKPU is not necessarily a declaration of bankruptcy; rather, it is indeed a legal avenue to facilitate debt restructuring,” he elaborated.

For Bukalapak, navigating this legal terrain will require careful management of its relationships and resources. The company’s ability to maintain trust with its stakeholders during this period will be critical to its long-term success.

Potential Outcomes and the Road Ahead

Dr. Wijaya outlined several possible scenarios for the case. If the court approves the PKPU, Bukalapak will have a limited window to negotiate with creditors and restructure its debts. Successful negotiations could pave the way for a stronger financial foundation, while failure could lead to more severe consequences.On the other hand, if the court dismisses the petition, Bukalapak will need to address its financial obligations without the benefit of a legal respite.

as the case unfolds, all eyes will be on Bukalapak’s ability to balance its legal challenges with its operational commitments. The outcome of this lawsuit could significantly shape the company’s future and its standing in Indonesia’s competitive e-commerce landscape.

Bukalapak’s Debt Dilemma: What’s Next for indonesia’s E-Commerce Giant?

Indonesia’s e-commerce landscape is no stranger to turbulence, but the recent developments surrounding Bukalapak have drawn significant attention.The company is currently navigating a critical 45-day period to negotiate a debt restructuring agreement with PT harmas Jalesveva and other creditors. The stakes are high, and the outcomes could reshape not only Bukalapak’s future but also set a precedent for corporate financial practices in the country.

Potential Scenarios and Their Implications

Should these negotiations succeed, bukalapak could emerge with a more sustainable financial structure. however, failure to reach an agreement might escalate the situation to a bankruptcy declaration—a scenario that would have severe repercussions for the company. Alternatively, if the court rejects the PKPU (Postponement of Debt Payment Obligations) petition, Bukalapak would be forced to address its debt obligations instantly. Each path carries its own set of risks and opportunities, making this a make-or-break moment for the e-commerce giant.

The Broader impact on Indonesia’s Business Surroundings

Dr. Wijaya, a seasoned expert in corporate governance, shared his insights on the matter. “Cases like this frequently enough serve as a litmus test for the legal and financial framework governing corporations in Indonesia,” he said. “they highlight the importance of clear financial practices and robust mechanisms to handle debt disputes.”

For the e-commerce sector, which is both highly competitive and capital-intensive, this case could serve as a wake-up call. Companies may be prompted to reassess their financial strategies and risk management practices to avoid similar pitfalls. The ripple effects of Bukalapak’s situation could extend far beyond its own operations, influencing industry standards and investor confidence.

Expert Advice for Companies in Similar Situations

When asked about what advice he would offer to companies facing comparable challenges, Dr. Wijaya emphasized the importance of proactive measures. “Companies should engage with creditors early, seek legal counsel, and explore all available options for debt restructuring,” he advised. “Transparency and good governance are key to navigating such challenges. It’s also crucial to maintain open dialog with stakeholders to preserve trust and confidence during tough times.”

Looking Ahead

As the situation continues to unfold, all eyes are on Bukalapak and its ability to navigate this complex financial landscape. The outcome of these negotiations could serve as a case study for other companies in Indonesia, offering valuable lessons on risk management, corporate governance, and crisis resolution.

dr.Wijaya concluded with a note of optimism. “Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this crucial case,” he said. “It’s a challenging time, but also an opportunity for growth and learning.”

How might the outcome of this case impact regulations or laws governing PKPU in Indonesia?

Interview with Dr. Adrian Wijaya: Navigating Bukalapak’s Debt Dilemma

By Archyde News Team

As Indonesia’s e-commerce giant Bukalapak faces a critical legal challenge with PT Harmas Jalesveva’s filing for a Postponement of Debt Payment Obligations (PKPU), the stakes are high for the company and the broader business landscape. To provide expert insight into the implications of this case,Archyde spoke with Dr. Adrian Wijaya, a distinguished legal expert specializing in corporate law and insolvency cases.


Archyde: Dr. Wijaya, thank you for joining us. Could you explain the significance of a PKPU filing in Indonesia and how it differs from bankruptcy?

Dr. Wijaya: Certainly. A PKPU, or Postponement of Debt Payment Obligations, is a legal mechanism under Indonesian law that allows a company to temporarily delay its debt repayments. It’s not the same as bankruptcy, wich typically leads to liquidation. Rather, a PKPU provides a breathing space—usually up to 45 days—for creditors and debtors to negotiate a resolution, such as restructuring debts or finding option payment arrangements. The goal is to prevent insolvency and keep the business operational.


Archyde: In the case of bukalapak, PT Harmas jalesveva has filed for a PKPU, claiming the company has outstanding debts. Bukalapak, however, disputes this. What are your thoughts on this conflict?

Dr. Wijaya: This is a complex situation. From what we certainly know,Bukalapak asserts that it has no outstanding debts to Harmas Jalesveva and has already challenged the underlying court decision through a Judicial review at the supreme Court. Though, the PKPU filing suggests that Harmas believes Bukalapak is unable to meet its obligations. the court will need to assess the validity of these claims and determine whether Bukalapak qualifies as a debtor under the PKPU framework.

It’s critically important to note that PKPU filings can sometimes be used strategically, either to pressure a company into negotiations or to resolve disputes. Whether this is the case here remains to be seen.


archyde: What are the potential outcomes if the court grants the PKPU?

Dr. Wijaya: If the court approves the PKPU, Bukalapak will have 45 days to negotiate with its creditors. During this period, the company could propose a debt restructuring plan, which might include extending payment deadlines, reducing interest rates, or even partial debt forgiveness.If the creditors accept the plan,Bukalapak could emerge with a more sustainable financial position.

However, if negotiations fail, the court could declare Bukalapak bankrupt, leading to liquidation. This would be a worst-case scenario, but it’s not the only possible outcome.The PKPU process is designed to avoid such drastic measures.


Archyde: How might this case impact Bukalapak’s reputation and operations?

Dr. Wijaya: Any PKPU filing can raise concerns among investors, customers, and partners, as it signals potential financial instability. However, bukalapak’s leadership has been proactive in reassuring stakeholders about the company’s financial health. If they can demonstrate that the PKPU filing is unfounded or resolve the issue quickly, the reputational damage could be minimized.

On the operational side, Bukalapak will need to ensure that its business continues to run smoothly while dealing with the legal proceedings. Maintaining stakeholder trust will be critical during this period.


Archyde: What broader implications could this case have for Indonesia’s corporate landscape?

Dr. Wijaya: This case is being closely watched as it involves one of Indonesia’s leading e-commerce companies.The outcome could set a precedent for how corporate financial disputes are handled, notably in the digital economy. If Bukalapak successfully navigates this challenge, it could reinforce confidence in the legal system’s ability to protect businesses from unfounded claims.

On the other hand, if the case leads to bankruptcy, it could raise concerns about the risks faced by startups and tech companies in Indonesia. It’s a reminder of the importance of sound financial management and obvious dispute resolution mechanisms.


Archyde: what advice would you give to companies facing similar challenges?

Dr.Wijaya: First,it’s essential to maintain clear and transparent communication with stakeholders. Companies should also ensure that they have strong legal depiction to navigate complex disputes like PKPU filings. Equally important is having a robust financial strategy to manage debt obligations and avoid situations that could lead to insolvency.

In Bukalapak’s case, their ability to demonstrate financial health and resolve the dispute amicably will be key to their recovery.


Archyde: Thank you, Dr. Wijaya, for your valuable insights. We’ll continue to monitor this case closely as it unfolds.

Dr. Wijaya: Thank you for having me.


As Bukalapak navigates this critical period, its responses and the court’s decisions will not only determine its future but also shape perceptions of Indonesia’s e-commerce sector. Stay tuned to Archyde for further updates.

Leave a Replay