The Association of Indonesian Insurance and Reinsurance Broker Experts (APARI) projects continued growth in the number of certified professionals within the insurance and reinsurance brokerage sector. As of now, APARI has recorded 630 registered experts, and that number is expected to rise significantly in the near future.
According to Bambang Suseno, Chairman of APARI, the membership growth is driven by the increasing participation in APARI’s educational programs. “We’re currently running an educational program that began last year and is expected to conclude in early 2018,” he shared. “With approximately 100 participants enrolled for the AAPAI level (Indonesian Insurance and Reinsurance Broker Adjunct Experts) and 70 for the APAI level (Indonesian Insurance and Reinsurance Brokerage Experts), we anticipate a membership increase of at least 70 professionals soon.”
That means APARI’s total membership could reach 700 experts in the near term.
Previously, enrollment numbers were lower — with 40–50 participants at the AAPAI level and 30–40 at the APAI level. However, changes in regulatory requirements have contributed to a growing interest in professional certification.
The Financial Services Authority (OJK), through POJK Regulation No. 68/POJK.05/2016, now mandates insurance and reinsurance brokerage firms to employ at least one certified expert. Furthermore, recent discussions with regulators indicate that company directors in this sector will also be required to hold formal certification.
APARI’s educational framework includes three certification levels:
- AAPAI (Adjunct Expert)
- APAI (Professional Expert)
- CIIB (Certified Indonesian Insurance and Reinsurance Brokers), the highest level.
In addition to local recognition, APARI has taken significant steps toward international standardization. In October 2017, APARI signed a Mutual Recognition Agreement with The Australian and New Zealand Institute of Insurance and Finance (ANZIIF). This agreement enables APARI graduates to receive dual recognition from ANZIIF without the need to undergo additional training programs.
“This international collaboration enhances the global mobility and credibility of Indonesian reinsurance professionals,” said Bambang.
As the demand for qualified insurance and reinsurance experts rises, APARI’s role in professional development continues to be a key driver of industry standards and excellence.