The national industrial world is in mourning after one of its central figures, Rachmat Gobel, passed away on Friday (10/7/2026) in the early hours at Brawijaya Hospital, Tebet, South Jakarta. Rachmat Gobel was not just a successful businessman, he was a visionary figure who played a major role in strengthening Indonesia's manufacturing independence, while also having served as Minister of Trade and Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI).
As the leader of Gobel Group, the deceased was known for his success in managing a vast business network, spanning the electronics, logistics, to retail sectors. Through PT Panasonic Gobel Indonesia and various affiliated units, this corporate group has made significant contributions by employing more than 18,000 workers across the country.
The leader's passing has triggered public discussion regarding the succession of leadership in one of the pillars of national industry. Given Gobel Group's strategic role in the domestic economy, the continuity of the family business has become a primary focus for market players and economic observers.
The name of Mohammad Arif Rachmat Gobel has now emerged as the most potential figure to take the reins of leadership. As the third generation of the founder Thayeb Mohammad Gobel's lineage, Arif currently holds strategic positions as director in the holding company and several subsidiaries, such as Panasonic Gobel Indonesia and Gotrans Logistics International.
Arif's track record, which focuses on digital transformation and strengthening human resource quality within the group, is believed to be a strong asset for him. Many believe that Arif's future strategic moves will be decisive in preserving the legacy of the Gobel family business so that it remains relevant amidst increasingly competitive global industrial dynamics.
