Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 1 November 2026

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Around 70% of Iranians Want a Change to the Country’s Nuclear Doctrine

Iran’s Supreme National Security Council secretary Mohsen Rezaei says around 70% of the population want the country to change its nuclear doctrine, and that serious discussions are under way. Iran’s leadership has not made a new decision, while the debate has intensified following a call by Tehran’s Friday prayer leader to revise the doctrine; Tehran continues to say its nuclear programme is peaceful.

Baznas RI Strengthens Global Islamic Philanthropy Ties with AVPN

Indonesia’s National Zakat Agency (Baznas) is working with the Asia Venture Philanthropy Network (AVPN) to improve social-impact measurement, strengthen zakat managers’ capacity and expand poverty-alleviation programmes. The partnership aims to align Islamic philanthropy with international standards and sustainable development goals, while connecting faith-based capital with modern philanthropic approaches.

Sukabumi Urges HGU Companies to Regularise Business Permits Through OSS

Sukabumi’s investment and one-stop services agency is urging private companies and state-owned enterprises operating on land under cultivation rights (HGU) to update and integrate their business permits through the Online Single Submission system. The agency says land rights fall under the authority of the Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Ministry/National Land Agency, while it handles business licensing, and notes that operators may need to complete requirements including a business identification number, spatial-use approval and environmental approvals.

Danantara Seeks Global Investors’ Interest in Domestic Opportunities Through Potential Partnership

BPI Danantara is exploring a non-financial strategic partnership with international media company Time to showcase Indonesian investment opportunities to global business leaders and investors. The discussions may include participation in nine Time events, while Danantara says it will make no sponsorship payment or allocate sponsorship funds for the 2026 Time100 Next Gala.

Fiscal Pragmatism in the Face of Global Economic Turmoil

A weaker rupiah and rising global oil prices are putting pressure on Indonesia’s state budget, with the deficit at risk of nearing or exceeding the 3 per cent-of-GDP threshold. The article argues for pragmatic but disciplined fiscal policy to cushion households and businesses from abrupt energy-price shocks and protect economic stability.

Education Minister: Free Nutritious Meals Programme Boosts School Attendance

Education Minister Abdul Mu’ti says the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme is encouraging more pupils to attend school, alongside helping meet their nutritional needs. The programme is also being used to foster good habits and character, while recipient data is being integrated with the national education database.

North Korea tests cluster-bomb warhead, with all types to be operational this year

North Korea says it has tested a cluster-bomb warhead capable of striking an area of 12 to 13 hectares and plans to have four categories of such warheads ready for operational use by the end of the year. The announcement follows a similar missile test in April and highlights Pyongyang’s continued development of weapons prohibited under the Oslo Convention, which North Korea has not joined.

The week in politics: from discussions on the definition of corruption to Youth Pledge Day

Policy measures to prevent drug misuse, Indonesia–Singapore diplomatic engagement and a proposed review of the definition of corruption featured in ANTARA’s political coverage from 25 to 31 October. President Prabowo Subianto also highlighted the values of the Youth Pledge to students, while former president Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono paid tribute to former TNI commander Widodo AS as both a soldier and a statesman.

15 Banks Closed by OJK in 2026: Full List and Locations Through October

Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) revoked the licences of 15 rural and Islamic rural banks between January and late October 2026, with closures spanning several regions. The latest was BPRS Musyarakah Ummat Indonesia in Tangerang, whose licence was revoked on 25 September; the article lists the closures through July in the material provided.

Health Ministry and POTADS Strongly Condemn Bullying of Child with Down’s Syndrome

Indonesia’s Health Ministry and the Down Syndrome Parents’ Association (POTADS) have condemned the bullying of a 10-year-old child with Down’s syndrome in Surabaya, who later died. They called for zero tolerance of violence against children with disabilities and urged government and communities to ensure they are treated safely, equally and with dignity.

Iran Ready to Negotiate with US if Seven Conditions Are Met

Iran says it will not hold talks with the United States unless Washington accepts seven conditions set by Tehran, which it says differ from those in the Islamabad memorandum of understanding. Senior Iranian official Mohsen Rezaei also called for the US to be “punished”, as conflict between the two countries remains unresolved despite an earlier agreement intended to halt hostilities.

Danantara Introduces Indonesia’s Investment Potential to Global Investors Through Cooperation Talks with TIME

BPI Danantara Indonesia says TIME’s use of its name and logo at the TIME100 Next Gala 2026 reflects preliminary discussions over a strategic, non-financial partnership, not a sponsorship payment. The proposed cooperation could involve nine international TIME forums and provide a platform to promote Indonesian strategic sectors and engage global investors.

Business Leaders Praise Prabowo’s Vision to Prepare Future Leaders

Kadin Indonesia members James Riyadi and Mulyadi Jayabaya praised President Prabowo Subianto’s focus on human development and leadership, and backed the President’s Programme for Indonesia’s Future Leaders (P3MDI). They said the programme’s intensive training and merit-based opportunities for young people, alongside cooperation between government and business, can contribute to national development and food security.

Detainees at Prosecutor’s and Police Lock-ups Allegedly Ran Methamphetamine Network in Bima

Police say two detainees held at the Bima Prosecutor’s Office lock-up and Bima Police lock-up coordinated methamphetamine distribution in Woha, allegedly using an associate and a relative outside detention. The investigation began with the arrest of a suspected dealer and the seizure of 30.26 grammes of methamphetamine, and police are examining the detainees’ roles and possible involvement of others.

IDX Welcomes Chapman Taylor’s Support for Indonesia Remaining an Emerging Market

Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) chief executive Jeffrey Hendrik welcomed senior US investor Chapman Taylor’s assessment that Indonesia has more than a 50 per cent chance of retaining its emerging-market classification in the MSCI index. Taylor cited stronger coordination between regulators and the government, renewed engagement with MSCI and tougher action against market manipulation as positive signs for the ongoing capital-market reforms.

Hebrew Media: Israel Moving Closer to a New War with Iran, Decision Rests with Trump

Israeli media report that the country’s military has completed defensive and offensive preparations for a possible renewed confrontation with Iran, while Israel and the United States intensify operational coordination. Whether hostilities resume rests with US President Donald Trump, as Washington and Tehran continue negotiations.

Rubio: Ukraine Conflict Remains One of the Serious Challenges

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the Russia-Ukraine war remains a major obstacle to resolving global economic issues, describing the conflict as at an impasse in some respects. He warned that it could escalate further and spread to other regions, as G20 foreign ministers met in Atlanta under US leadership.

Asta Cita from the Far End of Miangas

A visit to Miangas by newly appointed TNI Deputy Commander Maruli Simanjuntak highlights the government’s dual priorities of border security and improving life in remote areas. The article argues that achieving these aims requires village-level data, since district-wide indicators can obscure stark differences in access to water, roads and services.

Data Centres Vie with Farmers and Residents for Water: The Facts

A global study found that about a quarter of the world’s 9,347 identified data centres are in areas where water demand exceeds local supply, with the share potentially rising to 33% within a decade under a high-warming scenario. Researchers warn that competition with cities and agriculture could intensify, and call for greater disclosure, regulatory oversight and more water-efficient cooling practices.

Forging Independence Through the Batik Canting of Bandung’s Artisans with Disabilities

At a West Java social-services centre, people with disabilities are learning to make and sell Batik Ge Hade, turning craft training into a path towards economic independence and renewed confidence. Artisans Nurdin and Anggi describe how the programme has helped them build skills, dignity and hope for the future.

Thousands of Israelis Take to the Streets to Back Alliance with Arab Party to Oust Netanyahu

Thousands of Israelis in Tel Aviv urged opposition leaders to work with a historic Palestinian-Israeli party bloc, whose 19 seats could help form a 67-seat majority and remove Benjamin Netanyahu and his coalition from power. The election results may compel Yashar leader Gadi Eisenkot to seek the bloc’s support if he is to honour his pledge not to join Netanyahu’s coalition.

A conversation with Raslene, programmer for CROSSCUT ASIA+ at TIFF 2026

Indonesian programmer Raslene discusses co-curating six Southeast Asian films for the CROSSCUT ASIA+ programme at the Tokyo International Film Festival, under the theme “Side by Side”. She says the selection highlights shared regional histories, archives and cross-border film-making, while arguing that Indonesian cinema’s wider reach must begin with stronger support from local audiences.

OJK Refers Two Suspects in BPR DCN Malang Case to Prosecutors

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has completed its investigation into suspected banking crimes at PT BPR DCN in Malang and handed two bank directors, along with evidence, to prosecutors. The alleged misconduct includes unrecorded cash withdrawals and gold collateral, as well as fictitious entries linked to 71 credit facilities worth about Rp15.6 billion; the suspects face prison terms of up to 15 years and fines of up to Rp200 billion if convicted.

Health Ministry urges public to embrace children with Down’s syndrome without stigma

The Health Ministry has urged Indonesians to include people with Down’s syndrome in their communities, saying social acceptance can help address loneliness and support mental health. It also encouraged parents to use primary-care services to monitor children’s development and said the government would strengthen early detection and care for associated health conditions.

Video: How Rumah Tani Is Building a Modern Vegetable Shop with Competitive Prices

Rumah Tani plans to expand its network of vegetable shops to 100 locations by 2028, connecting growers directly with buyers and offering competitively priced produce. The article also highlights government efforts to boost food self-sufficiency, modernise farming and attract younger people to agriculture amid an ageing farmer population.

Global Oil Prices Keep Soaring: What About Coal and CPO?

Coal prices rose on Friday but fell over the week, while crude palm oil (CPO) also gained on the day yet recorded a weekly decline. Rising soybean oil prices, stronger Malaysian palm oil exports and a sustained rally in crude oil are supporting CPO, while Indonesia’s coal market faces weaker seasonal demand and supply constraints. The Malaysian Palm Oil Council expects CPO prices to remain above MYR4,600 per tonne in November, with falling production likely to tighten stocks into early 2027.

Danantara and TIME Explore Partnership to Promote Indonesia’s Investment Potential

Danantara Indonesia is discussing a non-financial partnership with TIME to showcase Indonesia’s investment opportunities at international forums, including events in Davos. The institution says its logo’s appearance at TIME100 Next 2026 did not involve sponsorship payments, describing it instead as an in-kind gesture while discussions continue.

Nutritionist Explains Why You Crave Snacks After a Meal and How to Manage It

Nutrition specialist Diana Suganda says persistent cravings for snacks may be linked to insufficient protein, which can undermine feelings of fullness. She advises maintaining protein at every main meal, avoiding extreme food restriction and tailoring exercise intensity to the body’s needs.

Anwar Abbas Urges Houthis and Saudi Arabia to Make Peace, Saying War Disrupts Umrah Pilgrims

Muhammadiyah leader Anwar Abbas has urged Saudi Arabia and the Houthi movement to negotiate, warning that their renewed conflict is disrupting Umrah pilgrims and that drone attacks could put their lives at risk. His appeal follows reports that the Saudi-led coalition intercepted Houthi drones near Madinah and Makkah, as fighting has flared again after a ceasefire collapsed.

Latest Pertamina Fuel Prices This Month: Non-subsidised Rates Unchanged

Pertamina left the prices of non-subsidised fuels unchanged on 1 November 2026, with Pertamax remaining at Rp15,950 per litre in the Jabodetabek area. Subsidised and assignment fuels also held steady, while the company said the policy was intended to maintain energy price stability for the public.

Israel Election Results and Their Impact on Regional Stability

Israel’s election has produced another parliamentary deadlock, with neither Benjamin Netanyahu’s bloc nor the opposition securing the 61 seats needed to form a government. The article argues that the stalemate may preserve Netanyahu’s political influence and encourage continued regional escalation, while highlighting the role of Arab parties and US President Donald Trump in shaping post-election manoeuvres.

Legal roundup: KPK probes Customs case and ketamine smuggling

The week’s prominent law-enforcement stories included calls for the Asset Forfeiture Bill to preserve the criminal justice process, a KPK investigation into alleged corruption involving Customs and Excise and a search of PT Djarum, and an estimated state loss of trillions of rupiah. Separately, investigators examined alleged bribery involving Langkat’s inactive regent, while police seized 1.16 tonnes of ketamine smuggled from Malaysia.

Shell Keeps Diesel Price Steady at Rp25,420 per Litre on 1 November

Shell Indonesia kept its V-Power Diesel price at Rp25,420 per litre on 1 November 2026, unchanged since September, while the fuel was available in selected areas. Pertamina’s fuel prices also remained unchanged, including unsubsidised petrol and diesel as well as subsidised Pertalite and Biosolar.

Danantara Insists It Did Not Sponsor TIME100 Next Gala 2026

BPI Danantara Indonesia says it did not pay for or allocate sponsorship funding to the TIME100 Next Gala 2026 in New York; TIME’s display of its name and logo was an in-kind gesture during ongoing discussions about non-financial cooperation. The talks include possible participation in nine international TIME forums to promote Indonesian sectors and investment opportunities, but remain exploratory.

Fuel Prices at All Petrol Stations in Indonesia as of 1 November 2026

Fuel retailers Pertamina, BP-AKR, Shell and Vivo had not changed their listed prices as of 1 November 2026. Prices vary by product and location, with subsidised Pertalite and diesel remaining at Rp10,000 and Rp6,800 per litre respectively, while premium fuels and diesel products cost considerably more.

Pertamina Keeps Non-Subsidised Fuel Prices Unchanged on 1 November

Pertamina left the prices of its non-subsidised fuels unchanged for November 2026, with Pertamax remaining at Rp15,950 per litre in Greater Jakarta. Subsidised and assigned fuels also held steady, while the pricing framework follows an Energy and Mineral Resources Ministerial Decree governing retail fuel price calculations.

Hundreds of Children with Down’s Syndrome Join Kuningan Car-Free Day Walk

Around 500 families and 250 volunteers took part in a healthy walk at Jakarta’s Kuningan Car-Free Day, organised by POTADS to mark Down Syndrome Awareness Month. The event aimed to challenge stigma and loneliness while highlighting the talents and creative work of people with Down’s syndrome.

Threat of a New War: Mojtaba Orders Iran to Retaliate Without Geographical Limits

Washington has reportedly warned Gulf countries to prepare for possible Iranian retaliation if the Trump administration launches a new strike after the US midterm elections, although President Donald Trump has not made a decision. Iran’s new leader, Mojtaba, has ordered retaliation without geographical limits, while US military deployments and regional fears raise the risk of a wider conflict.

North Korea says defence research institutes tested major weapons system

North Korea says its defence science institutes tested a cluster-bomb warhead for tactical ballistic missiles, with state media claiming the weapon could destroy a densely targeted area of 12 to 13 hectares. The announcement comes amid a series of missile tests and other displays of military capability as Pyongyang pursues efforts to modernise its forces.

State Schools Should Not Be a Burden on Families

Surabaya has reiterated that state primary and junior secondary schools must not charge families for items such as workbooks, uniforms, facility maintenance or school events, following a reported Rp300,000 contribution request at one primary school. The article argues that enforcing the ban must go hand in hand with adequate public funding, transparent school budgets and effective oversight so that children’s right to equal, cost-free basic education is protected.

Alibaba’s Qwen AI Model to Be Integrated into Apple Intelligence

Alibaba’s Qwen model will power features in Apple Intelligence for users in China, with beta testing scheduled to begin on 4 November and a wider launch expected alongside iOS 27.3 in December. The partnership marks a significant commercial deployment of a Chinese AI model within a major consumer-device operating system, while users will be able to control whether to enable the integration and what information to share.

Metro Jaya Police prepare five parking areas for Palestine rally at Monas

Metro Jaya Police have designated five parking areas around Jakarta’s National Monument for participants in the 2026 Palestine Solidarity Month rally, expected to run from 5.30 am to noon on Sunday. The arrangements are intended to manage traffic and minimise disruption, while the regular car-free day will continue until 10 am.

BMKG: Rain in Greater Jakarta Is Not the Result of Weather Modification

BMKG says recent rain in Greater Jakarta does not mark the start of the rainy season and is not linked to weather-modification operations. The agency expects the season to begin at varying times across Jakarta, from mid-November in the south to late December in the north, and warns of possible lightning and localised strong winds.

AI Could Boost Productivity and Investment in Indonesia’s Economy

Standard Chartered Indonesia chief executive Donny Donosepoetro says adopting AI effectively could lift productivity and attract investment with greater economic value. He argues that workers need reskilling as industries change, while data centres’ growing electricity needs could create investment opportunities in digital infrastructure and renewable energy.

Singapore Deal Dropped as Natuna’s Mako Gas Project Is Fast-Tracked and Pipeline Production Begins

Production has begun in Batam on 80 kilometres of pipeline for the Mako gas field development off Natuna, with the project targeting output of 111 million standard cubic feet per day. Although the gas was initially intended for Singapore, it will instead be supplied to Indonesia’s domestic market, particularly electricity needs in Batam and surrounding areas, in line with national priorities.

Singapore Responds to 148 LNG Cargoes from Indonesia, Denies Gas Was Resold to Other Countries

Singapore’s Ministry of Trade and Industry says LNG traded by Singapore-based companies is generally shipped directly from its source country to its final destination, rather than physically passing through Singapore. The statement follows Indonesian minister Bahlil Lahadalia’s disclosure that Indonesia had sent 148 LNG cargoes to Singapore and his suspicion that some may have been resold abroad, highlighting the distinction between commercial trading and physical delivery.

Why the Prophet Muhammad Urged People: ‘If You Have No Shame, Do as You Wish’

The article explains the Islamic understanding of modesty as a virtue rooted in faith, which helps restrain wrongdoing and protect personal dignity. It cites a hadith recorded by Bukhari and Ibn al-Qayyim’s view that modesty springs from a living heart, while its loss can leave people unrestrained by conscience.

Iran Says US Stance in Dialogue with Tehran Has Changed

Iranian security official Mohsen Rezaei says Washington’s tone in discussions with Tehran has shifted, but he has not replied to a letter from US Vice-President JD Vance. The report comes amid efforts to revive diplomacy following renewed US-Israeli and Iranian attacks, with the conflict still unresolved.

Yogyakarta Weather Today: Rain Possible in Highland Areas

BMKG Yogyakarta forecasts mostly cloudy to overcast conditions across the Special Region of Yogyakarta on Sunday, 1 November 2026, with no rain expected in most areas. Light rain is possible from midday in the highlands around the slopes of Mount Merapi and the Menoreh Hills.

Gibran’s High School Equivalency Ruling: PKS Says Parliament Must Take a Constitutional Position

PKS secretary-general Muhammad Kholid says Parliament should examine the Supreme Court ruling that annulled a certificate recognising Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s overseas education as equivalent to senior high school. He argues that the ruling, alongside relevant Constitutional Court considerations, calls for an objective and transparent review of the documents and verification process, and may prompt broader reforms to election eligibility checks.