Southeast Sumatra Sees Rise in Online Loan Usage During Nataru Period

Increased Consumption Drives Online Lending Surge

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) of South Sumatra has observed a notable increase in the use of online lending services during the 2025/2026 New Year period. According to Arifin Susanto, Head of OJK South Sumatra, this trend aligns with the region's higher number of borrowers compared to lenders. The surge in online loan usage is driven not only by primary needs but also by increased consumer spending on items such as fashion and electronic devices.

Factors Contributing to Increased Online Loan Usage

The ease and speed of online loan applications have been significant factors in their growing popularity. Arifin noted that the simplicity of the process, which can be completed in mere minutes, has encouraged consumers to take out loans for discretionary purchases such as new smartphones or fashion items.

Concerns Over Digital Fraud

This increase in online financial activity comes as South Sumatra ranks eighth nationally in digital fraud cases in the financial sector. According to data from the Indonesia Anti-Scam Center (IASC), the region recorded 8,135 reports of digital fraud between November 2024 and November 2025, resulting in total losses of Rp107.72 billion.

OJK's Stance and Future Monitoring

While confirming the increase in online loan usage, OJK South Sumatra is still verifying the exact figures and values related to this trend during the Nataru period. The authority is likely to continue monitoring the situation closely, given the region's vulnerability to digital financial fraud.