January's figure was much higher than analysts' projections, expecting an annual rate of 6.5 to 6.8 per cent and a monthly rate of 0.9 to 1.2 per cent.

Inflation in Southeast Asia's largest economy was 6.6 per cent year-on-year in December.

The consumer price index rose 1.77 per cent in January compared with December, at the upper end of expectations. Inflation was 1.1 per cent month-on-month in December.

Ali Rosidi, deputy chairman of the Central Bureau of Statistics, told a press briefing that food prices rose 2.8 per cent from December and prices of processed food, beverage, and tobacco gained 2.0 per cent.

Housing, electricity, water, gas and fuel prices increased 1.8 per cent, while clothing was up 2.3 per cent. -- AFP