Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 2 November 2026

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Indonesia Expo 2026 in Myanmar Secures Six Cooperation Agreements

Indonesia Expo 2026 in Yangon generated six cooperation agreements, 20 business meetings and projected transactions worth more than US$270,150, highlighting opportunities to deepen economic ties between Indonesia and Myanmar. The event also advanced education partnerships, aviation training and cultural diplomacy, as Indonesia seeks to turn initial discussions into lasting business and institutional collaboration.

Mobile Samsat Service to Operate in 14 Greater Jakarta Areas on Monday

Polda Metro Jaya will deploy mobile Samsat services across 14 locations in Jakarta, Depok, Tangerang and Bekasi on Monday to make annual motor vehicle tax payments more accessible. The service handles annual vehicle tax only; five-year registration renewals and number plate replacements must be completed at a Samsat office.

Why Do Westerners Use Toilet Paper Instead of Water? Here’s the Answer

Differences in toilet-cleaning practices reflect a mix of climate, cultural and religious traditions, historical developments and dietary habits. Although research cited in the article suggests water cleans more thoroughly, toilet paper remains entrenched in many colder-climate societies through long-standing custom and widespread availability.

Climate Change’s Health Impacts Are Worsening, World Urged to Act

A new Lancet Countdown report says climate-related health harms are accelerating, with heat-related deaths up nearly 36 per cent since the 2015 Paris Agreement and hundreds of millions of work hours lost to extreme heat. It urges governments to treat climate change as a global health emergency and integrate health into climate policy, even as clean-energy investment and air-quality improvements offer some progress.

Samindo Resources’ Net Profit Jumps 53% in the Third Quarter of 2026

Coal mining services company Samindo Resources reported net profit of US$17.47 million through September 2026, up 53% year on year and 17% above its target. Higher output across overburden removal, coal production and hauling, supported by improved operating conditions and additional contracts, contributed to the result.

Late Tax Return Filing Penalties Can Be Waived in Full: How to Qualify

The Directorate General of Taxes says taxpayers may receive a 100% reduction in certain administrative penalties, including for late tax returns, if they meet specified filing or payment deadlines. The reduction falls to 50% or 25% in later periods, while penalties linked to the Voluntary Disclosure Programme have separate conditions tied to paying the tax principal after an underpayment assessment is issued.

Manpower Ministry to Turn Training Centres into Hubs for Training, Entrepreneurship and Productivity

The Manpower Ministry plans to transform its vocational training centres (BLKs) into broader employment-service hubs, linking skills training more closely to industry needs while supporting new entrepreneurs and helping businesses improve productivity. Minister Yassierli said success should be measured by graduates’ employment and business outcomes, with a target of 70 per cent of trainees working or becoming entrepreneurs.

Rain Falls in Bali, but BMKG Says Dry Season Continues

Rain has begun in parts of Bali, but the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) says the island remains in the dry season and is in transition towards the wet season. Central Bali is forecast to enter the wet season from mid-to-late November 2026, while most other areas are expected to follow in December.

National Police Chief Issues Circular Banning Personnel from Using Vapes

Indonesia’s National Police has banned all personnel from using e-cigarettes, both on and off duty, citing concerns that vape devices can be used to circulate liquid narcotics. The rule took effect on 30 October 2026 and applies throughout the force; Central Sulawesi Police has also extended the ban to visitors at police premises.

OJK Launches ‘Pelita Syariah’ Book to Expand Islamic Finance Education

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has launched the ‘Pelita Syariah’ guide to broaden Islamic finance literacy and help the public recognise scams and illegal financial activities. The launch comes as Indonesia’s Islamic finance literacy and inclusion rates remain far below those for conventional finance, prompting calls to expand access and develop products suited to community needs.

Supreme Court to Explain Ruling on Gibran’s High School Diploma Equivalency Certificate Today

Indonesia’s Supreme Court is due to explain its cassation ruling in a challenge to the validity of Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s high school diploma equivalency certificate. The court granted the claimant’s case in full, overturned the Jakarta Administrative Court’s decision and heard the matter itself; the article also recounts the Constitutional Court’s view that it could not remove Gibran from office and that assessing candidate eligibility fell to the authorised institutions.

Mobile Driving Licence Services Available at Five Jakarta Locations on Monday

Jakarta’s Metro Police will provide mobile driving licence renewal services at five locations across the city on Monday, from 08:00 to 14:00 WIB. The service is limited to valid SIM A and SIM C licences; renewals cost Rp80,000 and Rp75,000 respectively, while expired licences require a new application at the Daan Mogot driving licence office.

Prabowo Partners with Kadin to Boost Investment and Develop Young Leaders

President Prabowo Subianto met around 250 Kadin members in Hambalang, where Kadin reported nearly Rp2,000 trillion in domestic investment during the first two years of his administration and pledged to develop future-focused industries. The meeting also highlighted cooperation between government and business, support for MSMEs, and the P3MDI programme, which will train more than 300 young people for future leadership roles.

Raffi Ahmad and Sari of ‘UBSI’ Clarify Their Roles in Youth Pledge Event at HI Roundabout

Presidential special envoy Raffi Ahmad has apologised for the controversy surrounding a Youth Pledge event at Jakarta’s HI Roundabout, saying he attended as an invited guest and did not intend to undermine young people’s activism. Sari Putri also apologised for wearing a University of Bina Sarana Informatika-branded jacket, clarifying that she is not an active student and that the garment was given to her by someone she did not know; Jakarta Metro Police have separately apologised and said the criticism would inform an evaluation.

‘Halloween’ Protests Paralyse Europe as Violence and Looting Spread

Large demonstrations over the cost of living and poor public services took place across Europe, with police on high alert after outbreaks of looting and violence. France saw the largest mobilisation, while protests in Germany and Italy also included clashes; activists raised concerns ranging from education and housing to climate policy and conscription.

Co-operatives Minister Urges ICMI to Support Co-operatives and Strengthen the People’s Economy

Co-operatives Minister Ferry Juliantono has called on the Indonesian Muslim Intellectuals Association (ICMI) to help co-operatives improve governance, access markets and connect research with business needs. He also highlighted the role of village and urban-ward co-operatives in shortening supply chains, while urging young people and intellectuals to support community economic empowerment.

5 Facts: Police Take the KRL to Raid Kampung Bahari over Suspected Drug Trafficking

Police and the National Narcotics Agency (BNN) conducted a large-scale raid in North Jakarta’s Kampung Bahari, deploying 1,800 personnel and detaining 26 people while seizing suspected narcotics. The operation involved officers travelling by commuter train, and KAI Commuter said three services were delayed after crowds gathered on the tracks.

How to Report Bank-Draining Fraud, Scams and Investment Fraud Online

Victims of financial fraud can report cases online through the Indonesia Anti-Scam Centre (IASC), a coordination forum involving the Financial Services Authority (OJK), members of the task force combating illegal financial activities and financial-services providers. The guide sets out the identity, transaction and supporting evidence needed, and explains how to submit and monitor a report; reporting is intended to help victims seek recovery of their funds.

Four Facts About the Horrific Concrete Mixer Truck Crash That Killed Six in Bekasi

A concrete mixer truck struck a crowd on Jalan Cut Mutia in Bekasi, killing six people and injuring six others. Police say the truck suffered brake failure; the driver has been detained, and investigators are examining the vehicle, witness accounts and CCTV footage to establish the cause.

Gold and Silver Take a Beating as Another Brutal Week Looms

Gold and silver suffered heavy losses last week, with gold falling for a third consecutive week amid technology-stock turmoil and expectations of tighter US monetary policy. Forecasts diverge sharply: Capital Economics expects gold to fall to US$3,600 an ounce by the end of 2027, while UBS sees it reaching US$5,000, underscoring significant uncertainty over monetary policy and geopolitical risks.

Climate Change Is Accelerating the Collapse of Earth’s Ice Systems

A report by the International Cryosphere Climate Initiative and the UN Environment Programme warns that ice-sheet loss, sea-ice decline and glacier retreat are accelerating, with some damage irreversible on human timescales. It says the world is likely to exceed 1.5°C of warming in the early 2030s, and urges governments to strengthen climate action and phase out fossil fuels to limit and reverse the overshoot.

National Police Headquarters Comments on Search of Hamalatul Quran Islamic Boarding School in Sukoharjo

Indonesia’s National Police says the search of Hamalatul Quran Islamic Boarding School in Sukoharjo and Karanganyar was part of an investigation into vandalism in Parangjoro village, not an attempt to stigmatise a religious educational institution. The police’s internal Propam division and the National Police Commission (Kompolnas) will examine complaints about how the search was conducted, while the force says it prioritised child and women’s protection.

BKN Keeps Pathways Open for Civil Servants to Work Closer to Their Families

Indonesia’s National Civil Service Agency (BKN) has relocated 101 employees to roles closer to their families and homes through four phases, with the latest 15 transfers taking effect in November 2026. The initiative treats family wellbeing and reduced living costs as part of career management, while transfers remain subject to organisational staffing and competency needs; more than 63 other government agencies have reportedly adopted similar policies.

Indonesian Santri Forum Chief Urges Public to Trust Legal Process over Sukoharjo Islamic Boarding School Search

Forum Santri Indonesia chairman Muhamad Natsir Sahib has urged the public to remain calm and allow the legal process to proceed after police searched Hamalatul Quran Islamic boarding school in Sukoharjo, Central Java. He said police actions are based on law-enforcement needs and highlighted the importance of official permits for educational institutions, including pesantren.

Banks, Fintech Firms, GOTO and Lazada to Collect Tax from 9 November

Hashim Djojohadikusumo says a digital tax collection scheme involving banks, fintech firms and major online platforms will take effect on 9 November 2026, as the government seeks to widen tax coverage and strengthen state revenues. The announcement comes as the Directorate General of Taxes has already begun appointing four marketplaces to collect Article 22 income tax on online seller transactions from 1 October.

Sunday roundup: spinach’s benefits and Heidi Klum’s severed-hand costume

The roundup covers reports on spinach as a food that may help maintain healthy blood pressure, a rumoured under-display camera for Samsung’s next Galaxy Z Fold, and Hyundai’s plans for an affordable electric SUV in India. It also notes record 2025 revenue for Japan’s anime industry and Heidi Klum’s striking Halloween costume.

Latest BRI, BNI and Bank Mandiri Deposit Rates as at 1 November 2026

BRI, BNI and Bank Mandiri have kept their rupiah time-deposit rates unchanged, with the highest rates ranging from 2.75% at BNI to 3.00% at BRI. The article notes that interest-rate policy, inflation and banking liquidity could influence future deposit offerings, while reminding customers that LPS protection of up to Rp2 billion per customer per bank is subject to eligibility conditions, including the applicable guaranteed-interest-rate ceiling.

As the Transition Season Arrives, Children Fall Ill More Easily: Diseases to Watch Out For

Paediatrician Aisya Fikritama Aditya says seasonal change does not directly cause illness, but shifts in temperature, humidity, activity patterns and exposure to germs can raise children’s risk of infection. Common threats include respiratory infections, diarrhoea, dengue and, during floods, leptospirosis; parents are urged to remain vigilant.

Offering Returns of Up to 6.85%, Indonesian Government Auctions Eight Sukuk to Raise Rp10 Trillion

The government will auction eight series of state sukuk on 3 November, targeting Rp10 trillion to help meet 2026 budget financing needs. Indicative returns range from 5.00% to 6.875%, with the longest-dated series maturing in 2049; the auction uses competitive and non-competitive bidding through authorised primary dealers.

Foksi Chairman Confident Sukoharjo Islamic Boarding School Case Will Follow Due Process

Forum Santri Indonesia chairman Muhammad Natsir Sahib urged the public to remain calm and let the investigation into the search of Hamalatul Quran Islamic boarding school proceed, saying police actions form part of a probe into the burning and vandalism of a restaurant. His comments come amid complaints of alleged intimidation during the search, while police say it was authorised by a court; watchdogs and lawmakers have called for the incident to be reviewed.

Six Killed as Cement Mixer Truck Crashes into Bus Shelter in Bekasi; Driver Detained

Six people, including a child, were killed and six others injured when a cement mixer truck struck people waiting at a bus shelter in Bekasi. Police have detained the driver for questioning and are investigating a suspected brake failure, while examining the vehicle’s maintenance and roadworthiness records; he remains a witness, though his status could change if evidence supports it.

Bukit Asam (PTBA) to Dissolve Subsidiary: Here’s Why

Bukit Asam will dissolve and liquidate PT Bukit Multi Properti as part of a state-directed streamlining of state-owned enterprise subsidiaries. The move is intended to improve efficiency, sharpen focus on core businesses and strengthen governance, and PTBA says it will not affect its operations, legal position, financial condition or business continuity.

Yesterday: Creative Economy Villages and Q3 2026 Growth Projections

This roundup highlights five economic developments, including plans to develop villages as hubs for creative industries and a forecast that Indonesia’s economy grew by more than 5 per cent in the third quarter of 2026. It also covers a proposed public housing project in Gambir, tighter safeguards at former forest-fire sites in Central Kalimantan, and the resilience of sharia-compliant shares amid market pressure.

Five Unusual Words Added to KBBI 2026, Including Kapitil, Galgah and Kencot

The latest update to Indonesia’s Great Dictionary of the Indonesian Language (KBBI) added 3,259 entries, bringing its total to 210,595. Five additions—from regional-language words to social-media coinages—illustrate how the dictionary records language as it is used and invites the public to propose new entries.

Pink Line KRL Windows Shattered by Stones During Kampung Bahari Police Raid

Two windows on a North Jakarta KRL Pink Line train were broken by stones amid a crowd gathered during a police raid in Kampung Bahari. KAI Commuter said it had coordinated with local police; three train services were temporarily held up.

Marathon Runners Advised to Know Safe Drinking Limits While Running

Marathon runners are being warned that excessive fluid intake during long-distance running can cause exercise-associated hyponatraemia (EAH), a potentially serious fall in blood sodium levels. A critical-care medicine consultant says runners should understand the risks of overhydration and maintain a proper fluid balance, noting that even oral rehydration solutions and sports drinks can contribute because they contain less sodium than blood.

New Details Emerge in ‘Grandmother Burns Granddaughter’ Case

A 64-year-old woman who allegedly set a 17-year-old girl alight in Depok is the victim’s aunt by marriage, not her biological grandmother, according to the victim’s lawyer and police. The teenager suffered burns to 80 per cent of her body and remains in a coma; the suspect faces charges under domestic violence and child protection laws, while a psychiatric examination is under way.

Raffi Ahmad Buys VISI Shares Worth Rp72 Billion

PT Harmoni Semesta Investama, the holding company owned by celebrities Raffi Ahmad and Nagita Slavina, will acquire 72.43 million new shares in Satu Visi Putra through a private placement for about Rp72.03 billion. The transaction forms part of VISI’s issuance of 120.72 million shares, which will also be taken up by two other investors, while Harmoni remains the company’s controlling shareholder.

IDX to Remove 81 HSC Stocks from the Composite Index from Today

The Indonesia Stock Exchange will exclude 81 stocks classified as having high shareholding concentration (HSC) from the Jakarta Composite Index from 2 November 2026. The IDX says the change should not trigger a sharp index move or reduce total market capitalisation, and is intended to make the benchmark more credible and representative for investors.

BNPB Urges Regional Leaders to Prepare for Potential Floods and Landslides During the Rainy Season

Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has urged governors, regents and mayors to strengthen preparedness for hydrometeorological disasters during the 2026/2027 rainy season. Its guidance calls for round-the-clock emergency posts, local risk mapping, early-warning and evacuation readiness, and preventive work such as clearing drainage channels and inspecting flood-control facilities.

Dasco Inaugurates Gerindra Leaders Across Banten, Urges Members to Unite for 2029 Victory

Gerindra central executive Sufmi Dasco Ahmad has inaugurated the party’s regional and branch leadership teams across Banten, calling for unity and early grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2029 election. Banten Governor and provincial Gerindra chair Andra Soni also highlighted provincial infrastructure and free-school programmes aligned with President Prabowo Subianto’s development agenda.

BNPB Issues Eight Preparedness Measures for the Rainy Season

Indonesia’s National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has issued eight preparedness measures for local governments ahead of the 2026/2027 rainy season, citing the risk of floods, landslides, strong winds and high waves. The guidance calls for hazard mapping, emergency resources and round-the-clock coordination, alongside community education and physical mitigation; BMKG forecasts a staggered rainy-season onset and a shorter-than-normal season in many areas.

People Who Like Cleanliness and Order Are Not Necessarily OCD: Here’s the Difference

A psychologist and IPB University lecturer explains that OCD is defined not by a preference for tidiness but by recurring obsessions or compulsions that are difficult to control and cause significant distress or disruption. Symptoms may be visible or internal, and time-consuming rituals are one indicator that warrants attention.

Iran Says It Is Ready for Any Scenario Against Its Adversaries

Iran’s Revolutionary Guard says its forces are prepared for any US or Israeli attack and warns that Tehran could respond with immediate, heavier strikes. The statements come amid stalled US-Iran peace talks, with Donald Trump yet to decide whether to authorise further military action and Turkey urging diplomacy to prevent renewed conflict and restore access through the Strait of Hormuz.

Bandung Women’s Prison Soft-Launches Lamoria Pavilijoen, a Showcase for Inmates’ Work

Bandung Women’s Prison has soft-launched Lamoria Pavilijoen, a public showcase for products made by inmates, including food, clothing and crafts. More than 500 visitors attended the launch, which officials said would help strengthen public support for rehabilitation and prepare inmates to return to society as independent, law-abiding citizens.

DJP Collects Rp58.75 Trillion and Appoints Three New Digital Tax Collectors

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) collected Rp58.75 trillion in taxes from the digital economy by 30 September 2026, with VAT on e-commerce transactions accounting for the largest share. In September, the tax authority appointed three additional e-commerce VAT collectors, bringing the total appointed to 280 as it seeks to widen compliance and revenue collection.

'Western Gateway' at Risk of Collapse as Debt Soars 130-Fold

Ukraine’s state and state-guaranteed debt has risen about 130-fold in hryvnia terms over two decades, reaching 9.54 trillion hryvnias at the end of September, while mounting costs and a large defence funding gap strain Kyiv’s finances. The IMF says the debt remains unsustainable without further restructuring and concessional foreign assistance, as EU leaders press Ukraine on stalled governance and anti-corruption reforms and show growing reluctance to provide more support.

Why Is Indonesia’s Unemployment Rate Falling Despite Widespread Lay-offs? BPS Explains

Indonesia’s open unemployment rate edged down to 4.65% in May 2026 from 4.68% in February, despite lay-offs across several industries. Statistics Indonesia (BPS) says the figures measure different things: laid-off workers may quickly find new jobs or enter self-employment and informal work, while recruitment elsewhere can offset job cuts.

Why Does Gen Alpha Like to Debate and Speak Bluntly?

Children in Generation Alpha are often more outspoken and more likely to challenge their parents’ rules than previous generations, a psychologist says. Social media, family, peers and school all shape how they communicate, making it important for parents to help them distinguish online behaviour from what is appropriate in real life.

Vice-President Heads to West Sulawesi to Visit Mamuju and Mamasa

Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has travelled to West Sulawesi to review government priority programmes and attend centenary commemorations marking the arrival of the Gospel in Tanah Kalumpang. His itinerary includes visits to a school and regional hospital, discussions with residents and a review of a home-renovation programme, alongside messages on religious tolerance and environmental conservation.