Jakarta, Indonesia – The world of football and international business is in mourning following the death of Michael Bambang Hartono, the Indonesian billionaire and co-owner of Italian Serie A club, Como 1907. Hartono passed away Thursday, March 19, 2026, at a hospital in Singapore, according to a statement released by the Djarum Group.
Hartono, 86, was a towering figure in Indonesian business, having transformed the Djarum cigarette company into one of the nation’s largest conglomerates. His passing marks the end of an era for the Hartono family and leaves a significant void in the Indonesian economic landscape.
A Legacy of Business Acumen and Football Investment
The Djarum Group’s statement, released Thursday afternoon, expressed deep sorrow at Hartono’s death. “With deep sorrow, the extended family of PT Djarum announces the passing of one of our company’s leaders, Michael Bambang Hartono,” the statement read. “We extend our gratitude for his dedication and service.” The cause of death has not been publicly disclosed, though Hartono had previously acknowledged suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and a heart attack.
Beyond his success in the tobacco industry, Hartono, alongside his brother Robert Budi Hartono, diversified the family business into banking, palm oil plantations, properties, electronics, telecommunications, and e-commerce. Their holdings include a significant stake in Bank Central Asia, Indonesia’s largest bank. However, in recent years, the Hartono brothers expanded their interests into European football, acquiring a controlling stake in Como 1907 in 2019.
Como 1907 Mourns its Co-Owner
Como 1907 responded to the news with a heartfelt statement of their own, expressing profound sadness and extending condolences to the Hartono family and the entire Djarum Group. “Como 1907 is deeply saddened by the passing of Michael Bambang Hartono,” the club stated. “We extend our sincere condolences to the Hartono family and to all at the Djarum Group.”
The club emphasized the pivotal role the Hartono family played in ushering in a new chapter for Como 1907. Under their leadership and investment, the club, based on the shores of Lake Como in Italy’s Lombardy region, has experienced a resurgence, aiming for promotion and establishing itself as a competitive force in Italian football. “Under the family’s leadership, the club has entered a new chapter in its history, and we remember him with gratitude and respect,” the statement continued.
Hartono’s involvement with Como 1907 wasn’t merely financial. His vision and support extended to infrastructure development and a long-term strategy for the club’s future. The Hartono family’s commitment has been instrumental in modernizing the club’s facilities and attracting talent, both on and off the pitch.
From Kretek Cigarettes to Serie A Football
Born on October 2, 1939, in Kudus, Central Java, Michael Hartono inherited a small kretek (clove cigarette) factory, Djarum, from his father, Oei Wie Gwan, in 1963. After a fire destroyed the original factory and shortly after his father’s death, Michael and his brother Robert rebuilt the business, transforming it into the powerhouse it is today.
Hartono’s journey from the kretek industry to the ownership of a European football club is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and willingness to embrace new opportunities. His investment in Como 1907 signaled a growing interest from Indonesian investors in European sports, and his passing will be felt not only in Indonesia but also within the Italian football community.
As of December 2024, Forbes estimated Hartono’s net worth at $25.1 billion, making him consistently ranked among the wealthiest individuals in Indonesia and the world. His business acumen and philanthropic endeavors have left an indelible mark on both his home country and the international stage.
What’s Next for Como 1907?
The immediate future for Como 1907 remains unchanged, with the club continuing its pursuit of promotion in Serie A. The Hartono family’s continued involvement is expected, though the specifics of future leadership roles are yet to be determined. The club is scheduled to face [Opponent] on [Date] at [Time] local time ( [UTC Time] UTC) in a crucial Serie A match. Fans can follow updates and match details on the club’s official website: [Como 1907 Official Website – *link not provided as per policy*].
Michael Bambang Hartono’s legacy will undoubtedly endure, both in the business world and within the walls of Como 1907. His vision, dedication, and commitment to excellence will be remembered by all who knew him and by the countless individuals whose lives he touched.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
