Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 1 November 2026

Showing 101-150 of 703 articles

Disguised as a Shaman, Repeat Offender Accused of Raping Junior High School Student in Kupang Beaten by Residents

A 48-year-old repeat offender was arrested after allegedly posing as a shaman to rape a 13-year-old junior high school student in Kupang Regency, East Nusa Tenggara. Residents beat and restrained him before police took him into custody; officers say he was stable and will be transferred to the Kupang Police’s Women and Children Protection Unit for further legal proceedings.

Female Students Allegedly Threatened with a Weapon: YPRA Highlights Psychological Impact on Frightened Children

The Child-Friendly Islamic Boarding School Foundation (YPRA) has raised concerns about the psychological effects on female students following a reported police search at Hamalatul Qur’an Islamic Boarding School in Sukoharjo. The foundation says the alleged intimidation, including shouting and threats involving a weapon, requires further clarification, while warning that frightening encounters can trigger lasting distress in children.

Billionaires’ Battle in the US Midterms: Musk and Soros Pour Money into Politics

Billionaires and political organisations are directing substantial funding to Democrats and Republicans ahead of the US midterm elections on 3 November 2026, when control of Congress and state governments will be contested. The article outlines major donor networks and their varied interests, while noting that campaign contributions do not in themselves prove promises of contracts, preferential treatment or policy favours.

Culture Minister Fadli Zon Says Andrea Bocelli Has Not Supported Zionism

Culture Minister Fadli Zon has rejected claims that tenor Andrea Bocelli supports Zionism, while his concert at Borobudur was framed as a message of peace and solidarity. Organisers also launched a fundraising initiative aiming to provide 100,000 pairs of shoes to children in Palestine and other conflict-affected countries.

Rubio Says US Was Not Directly Involved in Flávio Bolsonaro’s Flight from Brazil

Brazilian senator and former presidential candidate Flávio Bolsonaro arrived in Florida after leaving Brazil despite a court-ordered travel ban linked to corruption and money-laundering investigations. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington was not directly involved in his departure, while President Donald Trump said Bolsonaro could remain in the United States for as long as he wished.

ChinaMarket Invites Global Buyer Delegations to Linyi’s Trade Hub in China

ChinaMarket is inviting business associations and purchasing delegations from Southeast and Central Asia to visit Linyi, a major Chinese wholesale and manufacturing centre. The platform says it can coordinate supplier matching, market and factory visits, procurement and trade services, aiming to help international buyers build more efficient supply chains and long-term partnerships.

Police Investigate Complaints over Sukoharjo Islamic Boarding School Search and Pledge Review

Indonesia’s National Police say they will investigate complaints about a search at the Hamalatul Quran Islamic boarding school in Central Java, conducted as part of an arson investigation. The force has expressed concern over the distress caused, outlined support for affected female students and families, and said internal oversight and the National Police Commission will scrutinise the operation.

Jereh Launches Saturn™, a More Efficient Power Generation Solution

Jereh has launched its Saturn modular gas gensets, developed with Yuchai to provide rapidly deployable electricity for oil and gas fields and industrial sites. Factory pre-assembly and testing are intended to cut installation time by up to 70%, while modular capacity and measurable performance specifications offer customers flexible power supply and lower costs than diesel generation.

Bandung uses Pasupati overpass for culinary area to attract tourists

Bandung has designated space beneath the Pasupati overpass for a culinary area expected to host up to 60 micro, small and medium-sized enterprises. Mayor Muhammad Farhan said the initiative aims to support the local economy while maintaining cleanliness and order, with vendors required to use non-permanent facilities and operate for no more than 12 hours.

Huawei Launches O&M Solutions for Multiple Industries

Huawei unveiled updated operations and maintenance (O&M) solutions at HUAWEI CONNECT 2026, built on its MindOps platform and using agentic AI and digital-twin technologies. The company says the tools can improve fault response, reduce hidden-risk incidents and increase resource utilisation across government, power and transport sectors; it also launched an initiative to produce an O&M Agent research report.

Aspebindo Says Energy Transition Must Boost Competitiveness and Deliver Economic Benefits for the Public

Aspebindo has called for closer collaboration between government, business, universities and research institutions to accelerate Indonesia’s energy transition. The association says the transition must strengthen supply security and industrial competitiveness while delivering tangible economic benefits, with clean energy development also protecting marine ecosystems and coastal livelihoods.

Six people killed after concrete mixer truck crashes into bus stop in Bekasi

Six people were killed and six injured when a concrete mixer truck struck a bus stop on Jalan Cut Mutia in Bekasi on Sunday afternoon. Police said the driver reported losing control after the brakes failed; he has been detained for questioning as investigators examine the crash.

Bybit Opens Registration for WSOT 2026, Offering Up to 10 Million USDT in Prizes for Crypto, Stock and AI Trading

Bybit has opened registration for its five-week World Series of Trading 2026, with a prize pool of up to 10 million USDT and new competitions covering global assets and AI-driven strategies. The event runs until 2 December 2026 and expands the platform’s trading contest beyond crypto, while eligibility and regional restrictions apply.

Democrat’s Jansen: Gibran Must Resign as Vice-President or Be Removed

Democrat Party deputy secretary-general Jansen Sitindaon says a Supreme Court ruling invalidating a school-equivalency certificate used in Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s 2024 vice-presidential candidacy means Gibran no longer meets the requirements for office. He argues Gibran should resign or face action by the House of Representatives and People’s Consultative Assembly, while Gibran’s lawyer maintains that the ruling cannot be applied retroactively and does not affect his position.

Police Arrest Man Suspected of Beating Toddler to Death in Kebayoran Lama

Police have arrested a 22-year-old man suspected of abusing a 20-month-old girl who died near Kebayoran Lama Station. Investigators are examining witnesses and evidence, while the child’s body is to undergo an autopsy to establish the cause of death.

Regular Bioethanol Bunkering Begins at the Port of Santos

The Port of Santos has begun regular bioethanol bunkering, moving beyond a July pilot operation to supply CMA CGM vessels using Brazilian-produced fuel. The partners say the initiative could establish Santos as a low-carbon shipping hub and open a substantial new market as the global fleet of compatible vessels grows.

Psychotherapist shares ways to overcome the fear of being seen as a troublemaker

Psychotherapist Mark O’Connell says fear of being perceived as difficult or disruptive can prevent people from expressing their opinions and needs. He encourages open communication and distinguishes genuine belonging from changing oneself to fit in, noting that mutual recognition does not require agreement.

Outrage as Chilli Sauce Factory Plans to Replace Workers with AI

Chinese chilli sauce maker Lao Gan Ma has faced online criticism after reports said AI-based inspection technology had cut staffing on one production line from more than 600 workers to 48. The company disputes claims of mass redundancies, while the controversy reflects broader concerns in China about AI’s impact on employment.

Police Promote Spatio-Temporal Approach to Preventing Forest and Land Fires

Indonesia’s National Police is promoting spatial and temporal analysis to identify where and when forest and land fires are most likely to occur, enabling earlier prevention. A 20-year simulation in Pelalawan, Riau, found recurring hotspots and heightened risks during El Niño, underscoring the importance of peatland water management alongside patrols and fire-response measures.

RANS Carnival in Sleman Sees Few Visitors After Boycott Calls; MSMEs Pull Out and Musicians Withdraw

Several musicians and micro, small and medium-sized enterprises have withdrawn from RANS Carnival in Sleman following criticism and calls to boycott the event. The venue operator says its role is limited to technical venue arrangements, while responsibility for safety, order and restoring the site rests with the organiser; the event’s continuation remains unclear.

Magelang Ethno Carnival 2026 Brings Colour and Creates a Multiplier Effect for the Economy

Magelang Mayor Damar Prasetyono said the Magelang Ethno Carnival, which concluded the city’s Flower Festival, can boost local prosperity by engaging creative businesses, traders and community groups. He reported that transactions during the festival, held from 25 October, reached Rp250 million to Rp300 million per day, while local vendors said the events brought more customers and higher takings.

Years-Long Livestock Predator Scare in Gunungkidul Finally Explained

A series of livestock attacks reported in Gunungkidul since 2017 has been attributed to stray dogs, which tend to approach settlements during the dry season as water sources shrink. Local officials have issued prevention advice and said affected farmers may receive discretionary assistance through Baznas, although existing regional compensation rules cover livestock deaths from infectious diseases rather than wild-animal attacks.

Five Thousand People Attend Grand Opening of Palestine Solidarity Month 2026

More than 5,000 people from across Indonesia attended the opening of Palestine Solidarity Month 2026 and a rally for 1,000 volunteers at Jakarta’s National Monument. Organisers said the month-long campaign was scheduled for November to mark key dates in Palestinian history and will feature eight events promoting solidarity and public awareness.

Want Your Money to Be Safe in the Bank? Don’t Do This

Bank of America has warned customers not to share their banking usernames or passwords with third parties, including personal AI agents, amid growing concerns about cybersecurity risks. The bank says customers may face unauthorised transactions, account blocks or financial losses if credentials are exposed, and will be responsible for activity conducted through access they have shared.

BPJPH Chief Condemns Burning of Non-Halal Food Stall in Sukoharjo, Says It Tarnishes Indonesia’s Diversity

BPJPH chief Ahmad Haikal Hasan has condemned the burning of a food stall selling non-halal products in Sukoharjo, Central Java, saying differing consumer choices must never justify violence. He called on Indonesians to respect religious and cultural diversity and ensure the incident is not repeated.

Unable to Afford Their Upkeep, Stepfather and Mother Kill Baby in South Jakarta Toilet

Police say a 22-year-old stepfather and a 19-year-old mother have been arrested over the killing of their 20-month-old child in South Jakarta, with financial hardship cited as the motive. The child’s body is undergoing an autopsy, while the three-year-old sibling has been placed in the care of the Social Affairs Office.

Hundreds of Gen Z Protesters Arrested After Violent Demonstrations in Germany

Hundreds of people were arrested after protests organised by the Gen Z regelt campaign in several German cities turned violent, with looting, arson and attacks on police and emergency workers. The demonstrations had begun peacefully, with participants protesting school funding, the cost of living, public spending cuts and compulsory military service; similar unrest and mass arrests were reported in France.

Portuguese Police Clash with Housing Protesters, Arrest 13

Police dismantled protest camps in Lisbon and Porto, arresting 13 people and leaving demonstrators and officers injured amid mounting opposition to proposed rental legislation. The clashes underscore Portugal’s deepening housing crisis, where home prices have more than doubled since 2017 and rents for new contracts have nearly doubled.

Police to Investigate Complaints over Search at Sukoharjo Islamic Boarding School

Indonesia’s National Police say they will objectively review complaints about a search at the Hamalatul Quran Islamic boarding school in Sukoharjo, Central Java, with internal oversight including by its Professional and Security Division. The search was part of an investigation into an arson, threat and vandalism case; police say female officers and child-protection support were present, and affected pupils will be offered psychological assistance.

OJK Examines 31 Listed Companies at Once: Who Could Be Sanctioned Next?

Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) is investigating 31 listed companies and says it will announce findings once investigations are complete and violations have been established. It is weighing administrative enforcement against criminal proceedings under the Una Via principle, considering factors including transaction value, investor losses and the prospects for recovering illicit gains.

33 Countries Prepare Emergency Supplies as Indonesia Claims 25 Million Tonnes of Rice

At least 33 countries have urged households to prepare emergency supplies, while Indonesia’s Agriculture Minister says the country has rice availability of around 25 million tonnes. The estimate combines government reserves, rice from crops ready for harvest and stocks held by the hotel, restaurant and catering sector, against monthly national demand of about 2.5 million tonnes.

Excessive Supplement Use Can Harm the Body

Nutrition and health experts warn that taking too many supplements can cause organ damage, interfere with prescription medicines and lead to other serious complications. They advise using supplements only when medically indicated and consulting a doctor or dietitian, as supplements are less tightly regulated than prescription drugs.

Unique Flavour Profile Elevates Petang Cocoa to Premium Chocolate

After years of low market demand, cocoa from Petang in Bali’s Badung regency is being revitalised through a four-year programme supporting better farm care and fermentation. Laboratory and sensory assessments identified four distinctive flavour notes, while exports to Japan and partnerships with chocolate makers are opening up premium-market opportunities for local farmers.

Jakarta Nature-Loving Students Urge Young People to Help Prevent Forest and Land Fires

The Jakarta Student Nature-Lovers Forum and alumni are calling on young people to raise awareness of environmental protection and take an active role in preventing forest and land fires. They urged government to enforce the law against perpetrators, strengthen community-based prevention, and involve youth groups in conservation and environmental recovery efforts.

Digital Social Assistance to Launch on 10 November, Luhut Says

Indonesia plans to launch its digital social protection system nationally on 10 November 2026, pending any changes, after the proposal was submitted to President Prabowo Subianto. Around 60 million people have registered so far, with the government targeting more than 100 million at launch and aiming to register all eligible residents by year-end.

Indodax Completes Security Checks and Restores Services

Crypto exchange Indodax says it found no loss of assets, unauthorised transfers or member data leaks after investigating an anomaly detected on 29 October 2026. Deposits and withdrawals were suspended during the checks, then services began reopening in stages on 31 October.

Heart doctor recommends spinach to help maintain blood pressure

Cooked spinach may support blood-pressure management because it is low in sodium and contains potassium, magnesium and nitrates, according to cardiologists. However, people with chronic kidney disease should take care with high-potassium foods; the DASH and Mediterranean diets are also cited as heart-healthy options.

Tomang Underpass Temporarily Closed for Repairs, Due to Reopen Tonight

The Tomang Underpass in West Jakarta was temporarily closed while the Jakarta Public Works Agency replaced a drainage-channel cover across the road. The 24-hour closure began at 11pm on 31 October, with the route expected to reopen at 11pm on 1 November after the concrete has dried; motorists entering the toll road are advised to use the upper road via Tomang traffic lights.

Indonesia’s Forest-Fire Task Forces Involve More Than 100,000 Personnel

More than 100,000 personnel from government agencies, the military, police, volunteers and local communities are involved in efforts to contain forest and land fires, with 10 people reported killed or injured. The government has prioritised six provinces, while the number of high-confidence hotspots nationwide fell to 96 on 31 October 2026 from 160 the previous day.

Rupiah Forecast to Trade at Rp17,800–Rp18,200 per US Dollar at the End of 2026

The rupiah weakened to Rp18,170 per US dollar as domestic and external pressures continued to weigh on Indonesia’s financial markets. CNBC Indonesia analyst Elvan Chandra Widyatama said the currency could still strengthen, but forecast a year-end range of Rp17,800–Rp18,200 per dollar, while foreign selling linked to MSCI-related sentiment continued to pressure the Jakarta Composite Index.

Electric Bicycles for Just Rp3 Million: Big Discounts at Transmart

Transmart is offering electric bicycles from Rp3.68 million during its one-day Full Day Sale on 1 November 2026, with prices varying by region. Customers can obtain an additional 20% discount using eligible Bank Mega or Allo payment methods, subject to minimum-spend and product exclusions.

Komnas HAM Calls for Psychological Support for Female Students at Sukoharjo Islamic Boarding School Reportedly Traumatised by Police Raid

Indonesia’s National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) has called for psychological support for female students, teachers and young children after a police search at an Islamic boarding school in Sukoharjo reportedly left them traumatised. The commission has raised concerns about the treatment of children and women during the operation and urged Central Java police to review search procedures at girls’ schools, including the use of female officers and restrictions on searches at night.

2026 Wage Subsidy to Be Paid in November–December: Eligibility and Payment Amount

Indonesia’s 2026 Wage Subsidy Assistance (BSU) is scheduled for disbursement in November and December, with eligible workers receiving a one-off payment of Rp900,000. The new regulation sets eligibility criteria, including active BPJS Employment membership and a wage ceiling adjusted to local minimum wages, while excluding civil servants, military personnel and police officers.

IDX Chief: Sharia Shares Show Resilience Amid Market Pressure

Indonesia Stock Exchange president director Jeffrey Hendrik says Sharia-compliant shares have tended to withstand domestic and global market pressures better, partly because Sharia indices exclude conventional banks and investors do not use interest-based margin facilities. OJK data show Sharia indices had substantial market capitalisation in August 2026, while 622 shares were listed as Sharia-compliant by the third quarter.

Pertamina Strengthens Strategic Partnership in Algeria, Optimising Upstream Oil and Gas Assets for National Energy Security

Pertamina and its subsidiaries conducted a working visit to Algeria to reinforce bilateral energy ties, sustain upstream operations and explore new cooperation. Meetings with Algeria’s hydrocarbons regulator, government and national oil company focused on Block 405A, crude oil supplies to Indonesia and opportunities to expand collaboration.

Pertamina Strengthens Partnership in Algeria to Optimise Upstream Oil and Gas Assets

Pertamina executives met Algerian government, regulatory and industry officials to secure the continuity of operations at Block 405A and discuss new energy cooperation. The state-owned company says the partnership with Algeria’s Sonatrach and other stakeholders will help optimise its international assets and support Indonesia’s energy security.

After Public Outcry, Police Address Search of Sukoharjo Islamic Boarding School

Indonesia’s National Police say they will review complaints about a search at the Hamalatul Quran Islamic boarding school in Central Java, which reportedly unsettled students and their families. Police say the search was part of an investigation into arson, threats and vandalism, while internal affairs will assess how it was carried out and psychological support is being arranged for affected students.

Electric Vehicles in North Sumatra Reach 9,800 as PLN Commissioner Calls for Charging-Station Readiness

North Sumatra has about 9,800 electric vehicles, prompting a PLN commissioner to stress that public charging infrastructure must keep pace with adoption. PLN says it is planning charging-station locations around vehicle distribution, intercity travel and urban and tourist-area demand, while also prioritising reliability and customer experience.

From Rempeyek to a Warteg Serving Tokyo

Monggo Moro, an Indonesian-style warteg in Tokyo’s Shinjuku district, serves familiar Indonesian dishes with their original flavours, including intense levels of chilli heat. Owner Retno Wahyuningsih says the restaurant does not adapt its food to Japanese tastes, inviting customers to experience authentic Indonesian cuisine.

Dutch Police Detain 34 Suspected of Causing Disorder at The Hague Protest

Dutch police detained 34 people in The Hague on Saturday after social media calls for looting, made in the name of the Generation Z protest movement, prompted a heightened security response. Spontaneous demonstrations took place amid fears of clashes, while special police units were deployed and businesses boarded up their premises.