Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 2 November 2026

Showing 601-650 of 1,515 articles

Indonesia orders direct commodity shipments and freezes power exports in energy sovereignty push

Indonesia has ordered commodity and LNG shipments to bypass third-party transit hubs, arguing that indirect routes divert tax revenues and trade benefits from the country. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has also ruled out near-term electricity exports, including to Singapore, saying domestic demand and energy security must come first.

Education Ministry: First TKA wave remained objective despite disruption

Indonesia’s Education Ministry says the first wave of the Academic Ability Test (TKA) for senior secondary and vocational students remained credible despite a central server problem that disrupted the second day. A ministerial circular allows affected schools to hold a repeat session, while education officials urged students and parents to rely on official information and stressed that honest results are essential for improving teaching and learning.

Baznas DKI Opens Health Services for Residents Affected by Forest and Land Fire Haze

Baznas BAZIS DKI Jakarta has opened free health services and provided oxygen assistance in Palangka Raya for people affected by haze from forest and land fires. Its response has also included firefighting, food, vitamins, masks and clean water, with the organisation saying health support must complement efforts to extinguish the fires.

Pertamina helps five MSMEs access global markets

Five Pertamina-supported Balinese MSMEs showcased their products at an international event held from 16 to 28 October 2026, gaining exposure, business-networking opportunities and potential partnerships. The companies recorded sales worth hundreds of millions of rupiah, as Pertamina said its support aims to strengthen MSME capacity and promote inclusive, sustainable growth.

ASEAN Manufacturing Showdown: Indonesia Now Outperforms Vietnam and Malaysia

Indonesia’s manufacturing PMI rose to 54.0 in October, its strongest reading in 31 months and the biggest increase among five ASEAN economies surveyed. Record export-order growth points to robust external demand, although rising input costs, limited hiring and mounting backlogs remain challenges; Thailand still led the region while Myanmar stayed in contraction.

West Java Spends Nearly Rp300 Billion on Roads and Bridges in Tasikmalaya

West Java Province has allocated Rp273 billion over the past two years for road and bridge improvements in Tasikmalaya Regency and Tasikmalaya City. The projects include road widening and reconstruction, routine maintenance and bridge replacement, with work in the regency covering 11.826 kilometres by October 2026.

Indonesia SIPF and US SIPC Join Forces to Prepare for Cross-Border Broker Failures

Indonesia SIPF and the US Securities Investor Protection Corporation have signed a memorandum of understanding to improve communication, information sharing and cooperation on investor protection. The agreement provides a framework for coordinating responses to cross-border broker-dealer failures and ensuring compensation is paid promptly under each country’s laws, as securities markets become increasingly interconnected.

Industry Ministry nurtures nearly 400 new businesses in Central Java

The Industry Ministry’s entrepreneurship programme in Banyumas attracted almost 400 participants, with support including production equipment and guidance to help new businesses grow into small-scale industries. The ministry says it held 40 such programmes nationwide this year and also supports existing firms through training, certification, and market-access initiatives.

Social Affairs Ministry Says National Commission on Disability Selection Is Free from Interference

Deputy Social Affairs Minister Agus Jabo Priyono says the ministry will facilitate, but not determine, the selection of members of the National Commission on Disability for 2026–2031. The public scrutiny stage gives disability groups and the wider public an opportunity to question candidates and provide input, as officials stress the importance of an independent, transparent process.

Exploring the Transformation of Traditional Markets Through the Work of 50 Painters at Antara Heritage Center

An exhibition at Jakarta’s Antara Heritage Center brings together 50 painters from the SanUr Painters community to explore how traditional markets are changing and their role in everyday life. Running from 1 to 8 November 2026, the show includes paintings and an activity in which visitors paint on umbrellas.

BPS records rise in foreign tourist arrivals to Bali over the past three months

Bali recorded year-on-year growth in direct foreign visitor arrivals in July, August and September 2026, according to the provincial statistics agency. September arrivals rose 2.36% from a year earlier to 650,169, although they fell 5.22% from August amid tourism-sector challenges.

Thousand Islands Clear Blocked IPAL Inspection Chambers to Help Prevent Flooding

The Thousand Islands Water Resources Sub-agency has cleared blockages in wastewater treatment plant (IPAL) inspection chambers at several locations on Panggang Island ahead of the rainy season. The maintenance is intended to keep wastewater flowing and reduce the risk of drainage problems as rainfall intensifies, while officials have urged residents not to dispose of rubbish in drains or IPAL facilities.

Crater-Like Pothole Left in Road After Private Jet Plunges to the Ground in Florida

A Learjet 60 crash in Florida’s Palm Beach County killed all nine people on board and left a large crater-like hole in a road. US authorities are investigating the cause, while about 600 residents of a nearby mobile-home park were evacuated as a precaution.

Government to Create a Space for Universities to Exchange Best Practices at KPPTI

The Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology will hold the 2026 Indonesian Higher Education Summit (KPPTI) in Surabaya from 11 to 13 November, bringing universities together to share experience and strengthen the sector. The event will feature discussions on four key themes and launch initiatives on digital maturity, generative AI guidance and collaboration among teaching hospitals.

Indonesia Targets Renewable Energy Investment from China

Indonesia is seeking Chinese investment in renewable energy, leveraging China’s technology and expanding bilateral business ties beyond traditional manufacturing. Officials highlighted investment incentives, regional opportunities and partnerships, while data showed Chinese mainland investment in Indonesia totalled US$38.34 billion from 2021 to the first half of 2026.

Minister bans transshipment of Indonesian energy exports

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Lahadalia has ordered officials to stop Indonesian mineral and energy exports, including LNG, from being routed through intermediary countries. The directive follows a 31 MMSCFD reduction in pipeline gas supplies to Singapore, which the minister says is partly re-exporting LNG, while officials maintain the cut remains within contractual minimums.

Religious Affairs Minister Inaugurates 15 Members of Pesantren Council to Raise Education Standards

Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar has inaugurated 15 members of the Majelis Masyayikh for the 2026–2031 term, tasking them with developing ways to improve the quality of pesantren education. The assessment should cover student intake, graduates and their outcomes, as well as the institutions’ broader social impact and contribution to government and communities.

Prabowo Summons Economic Ministers; Rosan and BI Governor Arrive at Palace

President Prabowo Subianto summoned economic officials to the Presidential Palace in Jakarta, with Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani, Finance Deputy Minister Suahasil Nazara, State-Owned Enterprises Agency head Dony Oskaria and Bank Indonesia Governor Destry Damayanti among those arriving. Rosan said the meeting would review developments and discuss measures to optimise the national economy, while Suahasil confirmed he had been invited but did not disclose the agenda.

Antam (ANTM) to Pay Dividends, with Potential Yield of More Than 10%

Analysts see scope for Antam to deliver a dividend yield above 10%, citing its strong cash position, robust earnings and exposure to US dollar revenues. The forecasts come as the company reports sharp growth through September 2026 and its shares have fallen amid turmoil in Indonesia’s equity market.

Lessons from Minahasa’s Heroes

The article reflects on Minahasa’s distinctive place in Indonesian history, including its reputation under Dutch colonial rule and its contribution to military recruitment. It highlights Colonel Alex Evert Kawilarang and argues that political leaders’ example is essential to educating the public and inspiring younger generations.

Papua’s Special Autonomy Funds Aim to Accelerate Development and Improve Public Welfare

Indonesia’s government says it is overseeing Papua’s Special Autonomy Fund allocations to improve governance and ensure the money delivers tangible benefits. The funding is supporting basic infrastructure, with Papua Pegunungan receiving an additional Rp465 billion in 2026 and Papua Selatan and its four regencies projected to receive Rp1.8 trillion in 2027.

129 Earthquakes Shake West Java in a Month, BMKG Reports Active Fault Activity

West Java and surrounding areas experienced 129 earthquakes in October 2026, most of them shallow and linked to active fault movement, according to BMKG. Eight quakes were felt by residents, including a magnitude 4.1 event in Cianjur, prompting the agency to remind the public to check buildings for damage and follow official guidance.

Indonesian Embassy in Beijing Invites Chinese Firms to Invest in Renewable Energy

Indonesia’s embassy in Beijing has called on Chinese companies to invest in renewable power generation, energy storage, electricity transmission and green modernisation, citing the country’s estimated 3,687 gigawatts of renewable energy potential. The forum also highlighted bilateral local-currency transactions and saw Indonesian and Chinese companies sign memoranda of understanding with a combined commitment of Rp150 billion.

Ferry Boboho Says Febrie Adriansyah Asked Him to Extort Rp50bn from Tan Kian

Ferry Yanto Hongkiriwang told a Jakarta corruption court that former deputy attorney general for special crimes Febrie Adriansyah asked for Rp50bn from businessman Tan Kian in connection with the Jiwasraya case. Ferry said Tan later handed over S$5 million, equivalent to about Rp55bn, in three instalments; Febrie and others are on trial over alleged extortion and money laundering.

Kang Asmul Stresses the Importance of Integrity and Public Service

Bandung City Council Speaker Asep Mulyadi has urged civil servants to move beyond routine administration and deliver fast, practical solutions that benefit residents. Speaking at the city’s 2026 Civil Servant Achievement and Role Model awards, he highlighted integrity, innovation and measurable public impact as essential to restoring public trust.

Grand Egyptian Museum launches immersive light show ‘Eternal Sun’

The Grand Egyptian Museum has launched a 35-minute immersive light and sound experience, marking the first anniversary of its official opening. The show uses projection mapping, dynamic lighting, live music and bilingual narration to explore ancient Egypt, as the museum reports more than five million visitors since opening.

BMW Driver Who Drove Against Traffic and Hit Elderly Motorcyclist in Yogyakarta Reaches Amicable Settlement

The case involving a white BMW that drove against traffic and struck a 60-year-old motorcyclist in Kotabaru, Yogyakarta, has been settled amicably. Police said the driver agreed to pay for the motorcycle repairs and the victim’s medical treatment; the crash left the motorcyclist injured, while the driver was reportedly assaulted by a crowd afterwards.

A space for growth and empowerment for people with severe mental illness in east Jakarta

Cipayung Community Health Centre provides a range of mental health services, from counselling and screening to home visits and social rehabilitation, for residents in the east Jakarta district. Its Rumah Jiwa programme supports people with severe mental illness who are clinically stable to rebuild their confidence and independence.

US Marines Cause Further Trouble in Okinawa as Japan Calls for Tighter Discipline

Japan’s defence minister has urged the United States to enforce discipline across its forces after an American Marine was arrested in Okinawa on suspicion of drink-driving during a curfew. The incident has renewed pressure for effective preventive measures following the arrest of another Marine charged with robbery and murder.

Online Prostitution Involving Foreign Nationals Uncovered in Bali; Sex Services Cost up to Rp 13.7 Million

Denpasar Immigration officers detained three foreign nationals from Uganda, Russia and Nigeria over suspected online prostitution in Padangsambian, with one allegedly charging Rp 13.7 million. The agency says all three misused visitor permits and will face deportation and entry bans, while investigators continue to examine whether a wider network is involved.

Industry Minister: Rising PMI Signals Positive Development for Indonesia’s Manufacturing Sector

Indonesia’s manufacturing PMI rose to 54.0 in October 2026, its strongest expansion in 31 months, according to S&P Global. The Industry Minister said the improvement, alongside record growth in new export orders, points to stronger industrial activity and international demand, with momentum needing to be sustained to support economic growth and jobs.

Andi Arief Rejects PSI’s Claim: AHY Will Compete in Elections After the Prabowo Era

Democratic Party politician Andi Arief has rejected PSI’s suggestion that Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) is seeking the vice-presidency amid questions over the Supreme Court’s ruling on Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s high-school diploma equivalency certificate. Arief says AHY will pursue a proper electoral contest after President Prabowo Subianto’s era, while PSI politician Bestari Barus questions why Democrats reacted before the ruling was officially made public.

Telkom’s Performance Strengthens, with TLKM Revenue Reaching Rp113.5 Trillion on Growth in Four Core Business Segments

Telkom reported consolidated revenue of Rp113.5 trillion for the first nine months of 2026, up 3.5% year on year, while normalised net profit rose 3.9% to Rp16.5 trillion. Data, internet and IT services drove growth, and the company said its TLKM 30 transformation is focused on strengthening core businesses and capturing rising demand for digital services.

Indonesia selects 23 SMEs for government-backed IPO programme

Indonesia has selected 23 small and medium-sized enterprises for mentoring through its RISE To IPO programme, which prepares businesses for the capital market through support on governance, strategy and IPO readiness. The MSME Ministry and the Indonesia Stock Exchange have also launched a Go Public Academy, part of a longer-term effort to develop 10,000 public-ready companies by 2045.

‘The Remarried Empress’ Palace Experience Arrives in Jakarta

A two-week pop-up inspired by the fantasy drama ‘The Remarried Empress’ will run at a shopping centre in West Jakarta from 2 to 15 November 2026, ahead of the live-action series’ streaming debut on 4 November. Disney+ Indonesia is also staging a limited sticker giveaway at Blok M MRT station, as it builds excitement for the Webtoon adaptation.

Good News for Livestock Farmers: Indonesia’s Maize Output Forecast to Rise This Year

Indonesia’s maize production is forecast to reach 16.39 million tonnes in 2026, up 1.43% from 2025, despite a projected year-on-year decline in the final quarter. The forecast offers a potentially positive outlook for livestock farmers, while total harvested area is expected to edge down slightly.

Deputy Minister: Building Village Human Resource Capacity Can Accelerate Development

Deputy Villages and Disadvantaged Regions Minister Ahmad Riza Patria said improving skills and work standards in villages is vital to unlocking local potential and accelerating development and prosperity. The East Java provincial government has provided more than Rp85 billion in capital assistance to 1,001 village-owned enterprises, while the number of self-reliant villages in the province rose to 4,716 in 2025.

Investor Numbers Reach 33.4 Million, but IDX Won’t Rush to Add Listed Companies

Indonesia’s stock exchange has 33.4 million capital-market investors and 962 listed companies, but says it will not pursue IPO numbers for their own sake. The IDX is working with the Ministry of MSMEs to prepare businesses for sustainable capital-market funding, prioritising strong fundamentals and good governance over a higher listing count.

Visits to Jakarta Reach 8.58 Million Trips in September 2026

Domestic tourist trips to Jakarta totalled 8.58 million in September 2026, up 6.37 per cent year on year but down 6.17 per cent from August. South Jakarta was the most popular destination within the capital, while Jakarta residents made 8.5 million domestic trips during the month.

Indonesia outlines three steps to strengthen ASEAN defence ties

Indonesia has urged ASEAN members to deepen defence cooperation through people-to-people exchanges and joint training, practical cooperation, and ties based on mutual respect and benefit. Defence Ministry representative Tampubolon cited the 2026 Exercise Trident Resolve in Banten as an example, and called for sovereignty and peaceful dispute settlement to underpin regional security dialogue.

Two Tourists Still Missing After Landslides at Bali Eco Park

Two men, including an Indonesian national and a foreign visitor, remain missing after successive landslides destroyed glamping buildings at Eco Park Pelaga Glamping Retreat in Badung, Bali. A 123-strong joint team is searching the difficult, rain-soaked site, while authorities warn of further landslides and rising river levels.

OJK Holds Grand Finale of 2026 Financial Inclusion Month in Bandung

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) says 6,446 financial literacy and inclusion activities held during October reached more than 798,000 people and helped open millions of accounts across banking, capital markets, insurance, finance, pawnbroking and fintech. At the Bandung event, officials stressed that wider access must be matched by public trust, stronger financial literacy and responsible use of financial products to improve household resilience.

Rector: MABIMS Senior Officials Meeting Strengthens Solidarity and Brotherhood in ASEAN

UIN Jakarta Rector Asep Saepudin Jahar said the 50th MABIMS Senior Officials Meeting offers a strategic opportunity to deepen cooperation and solidarity among ASEAN countries. Discussions covered halal industry development, zakat management, artificial intelligence and education, with participants sharing practices they hope to turn into concrete programmes benefiting Muslim communities across the region.

Domestic Demand Behind Bahlil’s Decision to Hold Back Electricity Export Plans

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says Indonesia will not export electricity in the near future because domestic demand remains the priority. He also stressed that export permits fall under the Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry, warning Danantara Indonesia not to be swayed by lobbying over plans to send electricity abroad.

Smarter Cars, Robots and Disease Prevention: WSTDF Examines How Future Industries Take Shape

The 2026 World Science and Technology Development Forum in Chongqing brought together around 800 participants to discuss how advances in automotive technology, robotics and disease surveillance could shape future industries. Speakers highlighted the need for international cooperation, data and digital infrastructure, and stronger links between scientific research and industrial innovation, while the forum also released its Top 10 Science and Technology Foresights for 2026.

Why Is Indonesia’s Islamic Economy Behind Malaysia?

Indonesia ranks fourth in the 2025–2026 Global Islamic Economy Indicator, behind Malaysia, the UAE and Saudi Arabia, despite having the world’s largest Muslim population. OJK officials cite low uptake of Islamic financial products and a fragmented ecosystem, and say a new national blueprint will help guide more integrated development across the sector.

Environment Minister Investigates Alleged Deliberate Forest and Land Fires to Damage Government’s Image

Environment Minister Moh Jumhur Hidayat says his ministry is investigating intelligence suggesting that some parties may have deliberately set forest and land fires to harm the government’s image. The allegation has not been verified, and the ministry is examining fires at sites within the concessions of 335 companies to establish their causes and identify any responsible parties.

West Java Police Prepare Strict Sanctions for Officers Using Vapes

West Java Police say officers who breach a nationwide ban on e-cigarette use will face strict sanctions under a National Police circular issued on 30 October 2026. The prohibition applies to police personnel and civilian staff both at work and outside working hours, as well as visitors to police premises, with periodic monitoring and surprise inspections planned.

3D Laser Scanner Deployed to Uncover Cause of Fatal Cement Mixer Truck Crash in Bekasi

Police are using 3D laser scanning, a drone and Traffic Accident Analysis to reconstruct a cement mixer truck crash in Bekasi. The incident, in which the truck overturned and struck members of the public, left six people dead and six others injured.

AKBP Edy Herwiyanto Questioned by Police Professional and Security Division over Alleged Corruption

Police headquarters is questioning AKBP Edy Herwiyanto, a former Surabaya police criminal investigation chief, over alleged corruption, and says he will face firm action if the allegations are proven. He has been transferred from his structural post while the internal investigation proceeds, with the police promising to provide a transparent and accountable update to the public.