Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 2 November 2026

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University Helps Purbalingga Residents Develop Honey Pineapples and Prevent Landslides

Universitas Perwira Purbalingga and Universitas AKPRIND Indonesia are supporting residents of Siwarak in developing honey-pineapple farming and processed products, alongside clean-water management and measures to reduce landslide risks. The 2026 Kosabangsa programme includes farming guidance, IoT-based environmental monitoring, conservation planting and plans to strengthen the village water system.

Juanda Airport Strengthens Staff Preparedness to Handle Potential Hazards

Juanda International Airport has conducted a fire-response exercise and a series of coordination meetings to test emergency procedures, staff readiness and cooperation among agencies. The activities aim to improve airport security and passenger services while helping stakeholders anticipate operational disruptions and emergencies.

TransJakarta Repairs and Repaints Busway Separators on Corridor 9 to Prevent Accidents

TransJakarta and Jakarta’s transport agency have completed repairs, repositioning and repainting of busway separators along Corridor 9, which runs between Pinang Ranti and Pluit. The work is intended to deter other vehicles from entering the dedicated lane, improve visibility and reduce collision risks, while supporting safer and more reliable bus services.

‘Harry Potter’ Sentenced to 34 Years in Prison in Thailand

Thai activist and human rights lawyer Arnon Nampa has received a further two years and eight months in prison for insulting the monarchy, bringing his accumulated sentence to more than 34 years. His lawyer says Thailand’s lèse-majesté law is being used as a political tool against opponents, while rights groups argue it has been used to suppress free expression since the 2020 protests.

Heroes’ families enliven Heroes’ Day in Kota Tua with angklung performance

Descendants and relatives of Indonesian national heroes performed angklung at the 2026 Heroes’ Day commemoration in Jakarta’s Kota Tua, alongside an exhibition of family memorabilia. Meutia Hatta said the event aimed to show younger generations that heroism is not merely history, but a continuing set of values and commitment to Indonesia.

Expect Delays: Bridge Repairs on the Jagorawi Toll Road at Km 9 until 6 November

Traffic congestion on the Jagorawi Toll Road towards Cibubur was caused in part by bridge repairs at Km 9+700, scheduled to continue until 6 November. Jasa Marga has introduced a contraflow between Km 5+500 and Km 11+700 to ease delays, which were also worsened by the evening rush-hour increase in vehicle volumes.

Creative Economy Gains Momentum as Local Content Investment Expands Employment

WeTV Indonesia says it has produced more than 57 local original series in six years, involving over 10,000 crew members and creative talents and generating demand for services across the production supply chain. The company plans to continue investing in local content and intellectual property, while a Tencent memorandum of understanding with the Ministry of Creative Economy aims to support Indonesia’s creative and digital industries.

UB Transmigration Ministry team installs clean water system in Sorong

A team from the University of Brawijaya working with the Ministry of Transmigration has installed a clean water system at a health outpost in Sorong Regency, where households have limited access to water. The project is part of wider community empowerment work, including support for fishing, compost production, small businesses and agroforestry, with the ministry stressing that skills and technology transfer should create lasting benefits beyond the team’s assignment.

Police: Russian Mercenary Recruits Trafficked to Russia Received Only One Month of Training

Indonesian police say five people were trafficked through a recruitment scheme to serve as Russian mercenaries and were sent to the battlefield after just one month of training. A suspect allegedly organised recruitment and departures, earning commissions, while authorities say the number of victims may rise as the investigation continues.

Cardiovascular Technology Advances, but Doctors Face Clinical Challenges

Advances in cardiovascular medicine are expanding diagnostic and treatment options, while clinicians must decide when and how to use them safely for individual patients. At CARES 2026 in Jakarta, medical professionals discussed these decisions against the backdrop of Indonesia’s substantial hypertension and heart attack burden.

Bekasi Cement Mixer Truck Driver Named Suspect in Fatal Crash

Police have named the driver of a cement mixer truck a suspect after a crash in Bekasi that killed six people and injured six others. Investigators suspect brake failure caused the truck to veer into a campus wall and strike people nearby; they are combining traffic-accident analysis with expert assessments of the vehicle’s condition and roadworthiness.

Furore Over Tax on Sanitary Pads as Woman Files Constitutional Court Challenge

An Indonesian citizen has petitioned the Constitutional Court, arguing that the law governing VAT exemptions does not explicitly account for menstrual products as essential goods. She is asking the court to require objective and proportionate consideration of biological necessities, including menstrual hygiene products, when determining which goods qualify for tax relief.

BPS: South Sumatra Inflation Reaches 0.44% in October 2026

South Sumatra recorded monthly inflation of 0.44% in October, driven mainly by rising food prices, particularly rice, chillies and other horticultural produce. The provincial statistics agency warned that inflationary pressure could intensify in November and December, and urged local authorities to strengthen supply controls and price monitoring.

Bali Police Chief Calls for Search for Pelaga Landslide Victims to Be Intensified

Bali Police Chief Pasma Royce has urged rescuers to intensify efforts to find two people missing after a landslide swept away a glamping building at Pelaga Eco Park in Badung. A joint operation involving 123 personnel is continuing amid difficult terrain and the risk of further landslides and rising river levels.

Cracked Road at Mabes Hankam in East Jakarta Repaired After Residents’ Complaints

Jakarta’s Bina Marga Agency has repaired a long crack in Jalan Raya Mabes Hankam after residents warned it posed a danger to motorists, particularly motorcyclists. The repair followed public reports on social media, and the agency urged road users to remain cautious while thanking residents for reporting the damage.

Japan urges US military to strengthen discipline after Marine’s arrest

Japan’s defence minister has urged the US military to take seriously the arrest of a Marine in Okinawa for driving during a curfew, reportedly with a blood alcohol level more than twice the legal limit. The incident has renewed pressure for effective prevention measures and strict enforcement of restrictions imposed after another Marine was charged with the robbery and murder of a local woman.

Tax-Free Income Threshold Proposed to Rise in 2027 — What Could It Be?

Indonesia is considering raising the non-taxable income threshold (PTKP) in 2027, with officials still assessing its effects on household purchasing power and tax revenue. Employers’ association Apindo supports the proposal, saying it could ease workers’ tax burden, particularly for the middle class.

Bahlil: Electricity Exports Can Continue if Buyers Accept Indonesia’s Price

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says Indonesia is willing to continue plans to export electricity, including to Singapore, provided buyers accept the price set by the government. He stressed that exports must be mutually beneficial and that domestic electricity needs will take priority if negotiations fail to produce an acceptable price.

The Internet Is Changing Completely: Google Sacrifices Cash Cow for AI

Google is expanding advertising into AI-powered search features as growth in its traditional Search business slows. The company says early results for sponsored AI Mode placements are promising, while CEO Sundar Pichai points to rising use of longer, more complex and multimodal queries.

Metro Jaya Police to Schedule Questioning of Betrand Peto

Metro Jaya Police say they will question the reported party in a case involving entertainer Betrand Peto after completing interviews with expert witnesses. The investigation has been upgraded from an inquiry to a formal investigation, with police working alongside Indonesia’s Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) on victim protection and possible restitution.

South Korea’s Direct Overseas Online Sales Hit Record in Q3 2026

South Korea’s direct overseas online sales rose 40.7% year on year to 1.09 trillion won in the third quarter of 2026, the highest Q3 total since 2020. Meanwhile, direct overseas online purchases fell for a second consecutive quarter, down 6.3% amid the prolonged impact of a strong US dollar.

Trade Minister: Modern Retail Access Is a Springboard for MSMEs to Reach Global Markets

Trade Minister Budi Santoso says selling through modern retail chains helps Indonesian micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) improve quality standards and competitiveness, paving the way for exports. The government is supporting businesses through export programmes, international trade fairs and overseas trade representatives, while pursuing agreements including the Indonesia–EU CEPA.

Vice-President Meets Cocoa Farmers to Discuss Subsidised Fertiliser and Farming Equipment

Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming has pledged to coordinate with the Agriculture Ministry over cocoa farmers’ access to subsidised fertiliser and modern equipment in Mamuju, West Sulawesi. Farmers also called for greater price stability, as the price of dried cocoa has fallen to Rp50,000 per kilogram from a previous peak of Rp180,000.

Latest National Police Chief Directive: Officers Who Use Vapes Face Sanctions

Indonesia’s National Police has banned all personnel from using vapes, both at work and outside working hours, citing the risk that e-cigarette devices could be used to conceal and circulate liquid narcotics. Violations may lead to disciplinary action, while officers found using vape liquid containing narcotics could face criminal prosecution; the public is also being asked to report breaches.

OJK integrates development of all Islamic financial services through blueprint

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has launched an integrated blueprint to coordinate the development of Islamic finance across banking, capital markets, insurance, pensions, financing and digital financial services. It sets out three strategic priorities and four supporting foundations, aiming to make Islamic finance more competitive and inclusive and a leading choice for Indonesians.

Australians Urged to Take Care with Raw Seafood

A Food Safety Information Council study has found that raw seafood consumption is widespread in Australia, while warning that marinades such as vinegar and lemon juice do not reliably eliminate parasites or other foodborne hazards. The council advises higher-risk groups to avoid certain raw or chilled seafood and recommends sourcing fish from trusted suppliers and handling it safely.

Former Sukoharjo Police Chief Investigated After Islamic Boarding School Search

Police headquarters’ professional standards division is investigating four officers, including former Sukoharjo Police Chief AKBP Andhika Dharma Sena, over a search at the Hamalatul Quran Islamic boarding school. The inquiry into possible ethical breaches is proceeding alongside the criminal investigation, following complaints that the operation caused distress to female students and staff.

No Need to Wait for Mass Circumcision Events: Rumah Khitan Zidan MKI Offers Free Monthly Service

Rumah Khitan Zidan MKI provides free circumcision services for children at the end of each month in East Jakarta, giving families an alternative to occasional mass events. Organisers say the programme combines professional medical care with a modern technique, and hope it can reach more families across Indonesia.

Malang Police Chief Joins Interfaith Leaders to Maintain Public Order

Malang Police Chief AKBP Rulian Syauri has urged interfaith leaders to help preserve religious harmony and prevent security problems, including alcohol circulation and youth delinquency. In a meeting with the Malang Regency Interfaith Harmony Forum, he called for stronger cooperation among police, local government and communities, while noting that officers have seized more than 3,600 bottles of alcohol since he took up his post.

No Trace of Missing People on First Day of Pelaga Landslide Search; Mattresses and Shoes Found

Rescuers have yet to locate two people buried in a landslide at Pelaga Eco Park in Badung, Bali, after the first day of searching. Teams found a mobile phone, three mattresses and a pair of CAT shoes, while clearing debris and difficult access conditions are complicating the operation.

BPS Records Indonesia’s September 2026 Trade Surplus at US$3.36 Billion

Indonesia recorded a US$3.36 billion trade surplus in September 2026, according to Statistics Indonesia (BPS). Exports totalled US$27.59 billion, while imports amounted to US$24.23 billion.

Government discusses proposal to raise the tax-free income threshold in 2027

The government says a proposed increase to the non-taxable income threshold (PTKP) is being considered for 2027, with officials assessing its potential effects on household purchasing power and tax revenue. Business leaders support the move, saying it could ease workers’ tax burden, particularly for the middle class.

PLN EPI Pushes to Strengthen Biomass Ecosystem and Accelerate Energy Transition

PLN Energi Primer Indonesia (PLN EPI) is seeking to develop Indonesia’s estimated 83.4 million tonnes of annual biomass potential through stronger supply chains and a wider range of bioenergy products. Its efforts include biomass co-firing at 52 power plants and expansion into products such as biochar, biomethane and sustainable aviation fuel, with local cooperatives and businesses expected to participate in the value chain.

Four Palembang LRT Feeder and Teman Bus Routes Suspend Operations

Four public transport corridors in Palembang, including one Musi Emas LRT feeder route and two Teman Bus Transmusi routes, have temporarily suspended services from 1 November 2026 amid procurement administration updates and verification in the government’s OSS system. Mayor Ratu Dewa said the city aims to resolve the administrative issues within three days, while other feeder routes continue to operate.

Food and Drink Inflation Rises, Putting Household Budgets Under Pressure

Food, drink and tobacco prices rose for a second consecutive month in October 2026, while personal care prices edged down, but economists caution that this does not by itself prove households are shifting spending away from non-essential goods. They warn that higher food costs could squeeze purchasing power, with El Niño, strong demand and a weaker rupiah posing further risks to inflation into the first half of 2027.

Feeder LRT and Teman Bus Corridor Services Temporarily Suspended, Disappointing Passengers

Palembang has temporarily suspended two Musi Emas LRT feeder corridors and two Transmusi Teman Bus corridors from 1 November 2026, leaving passengers to find alternative transport. The city says the disruption stems from procurement administration and OSS system verification issues, and expects to resolve them within several days so services can resume.

Meutia Hatta: The Essence of Heroes’ Day Is to Carry Forward the Spirit of Love for the Homeland

IKPNI chair Meutia Hatta says Heroes’ Day should do more than commemorate the past: it should pass on the values, patriotism and spirit of service embodied by national heroes to younger generations. She urged young Indonesians to help build a prosperous, respected country and uphold the principles of defending the nation.

Victims of Concrete Mixer Lorry Crash Receive Compensation as Bekasi City Police Ensure Their Rights Are Met

The families of two people killed in a concrete mixer lorry crash in Bekasi have received compensation from Jasa Raharja, with police helping to ensure their claims were processed promptly. The collision killed six people and injured six others; the lorry driver has been named a suspect as the investigation continues.

Severe Congestion on Jagorawi Toll Road Towards Cibubur; Contraflow in Place from Km 5 to 11

Traffic on the Jagorawi Toll Road towards Cibubur was severely congested on Monday evening, with queues reported from Cawang and again between Km 5 and Km 9+700. Jasa Marga said the congestion was caused by rush-hour traffic and bridge repairs, prompting a contraflow system from Km 5+500 to Km 11+700.

Police Name 13 Suspects in Human Trafficking Scheme Recruiting Mercenaries for Russia

Indonesia’s National Police have named 13 suspects in five human-trafficking investigations involving people recruited to serve as Russian mercenaries. A total of 58 victims were allegedly lured with promises of lucrative overseas jobs, signing bonuses and monthly salaries, then directed to sign mercenary contracts and trained for possible deployment to armed-conflict zones.

AllianzGI Optimistic About Indonesia’s Long-Term Economic Outlook

Allianz Global Investors chief economist Christian Schulz says Indonesia’s long-term growth prospects remain positive despite energy-price pressures and elevated global interest rates expected to persist into 2027. He says the challenges could spur policy adjustments, while warning that inflation, geopolitics and monetary policy will continue to shape markets and investment risks.

High Airfares and Haze Drive 13.69% Fall in Indonesians Travelling Abroad

Statistics Indonesia (BPS) recorded 600,605 trips abroad by Indonesian citizens in September 2026, down 6.69% month on month and 13.69% year on year. Higher international airfares and haze-related disruption were cited as contributing factors; domestic trips also fell monthly, while inbound visitor numbers remained higher than a year earlier.

Rupiah under pressure as Bank Indonesia expected to raise BI-Rate to 6% this month

Bank Permata expects Bank Indonesia to raise its policy rate by 25 basis points to 6% in November 2026, citing rupiah weakness, the prospect of a US Federal Reserve hike and risks of imported inflation. Although October inflation eased slightly, food prices remain a concern, while El Niño and global energy prices could keep inflation above 3% into the first half of 2027.

Huawei and Longgang International Arts Center Unveil Global-Standard Smart Arts Venue

Huawei and Longgang International Arts Center have launched a global smart-venue showcase in Shenzhen, alongside the opening of the D+ Digital Art Gallery. The project integrates digital infrastructure and intelligent technologies across construction and operations, with a focus on visitor experience, efficiency and lower energy use; an independent assessment rated the centre’s digital and smart performance as “excellent”.

Bali Police Inspect Petrol Stations and Pertamina Depot, Confirming Fuel Stocks Are Secure

Bali Police inspected fuel stocks and queues at four petrol stations and Pertamina’s Sanggaran depot, finding supplies stable and queues normal. Officials said stocks of Pertalite, Pertamax and diesel should meet Bali’s needs for between 13 and 20 days, with further deliveries expected, and urged the public not to panic-buy.

Pramono Delays PAM Jaya IPO, Citing Capital Market Conditions

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has postponed PAM Jaya’s planned initial public offering, saying weak capital-market conditions make it unwise to proceed immediately. He said the plan remains in place and could move forward in 2027 if the market improves.

Ferry Boboho Candidly Admits Receiving Rp22.5bn Fee for ‘Just Listening’ to a Case

Ferry Hongkiriwang, known as Ferry Boboho, told a Jakarta court he received Rp22.5 billion from PT Perwira Adhitama for legal consultations concerning an alleged steel-import corruption case, describing the service as listening to the client and offering advice. He also acknowledged receiving Rp18 billion from a defendant in the 4G BTS corruption case, while claiming most of it was repayment of a loan; his testimony forms part of the extortion and money-laundering trial involving former senior prosecutor Febrie Adriansyah.

Argentina’s Economy Heads Towards Recession Amid President’s Policies

Economists say Argentina may have entered a moderate recession in the third quarter of 2026, following a 0.6% contraction in the second quarter and an expected further decline. President Javier Milei’s austerity and tight monetary policies have helped curb inflation, but weaker consumer demand, business closures and job cuts are hitting domestic industries, while export-focused energy, mining and agriculture continue to grow.

French Students Blockade Schools, Demand Improvements to Education Sector

Students blocked schools in several French cities after the autumn break, continuing protests that began in mid-September over facilities, teacher numbers and university capacity. The government has announced a €4 billion school renovation plan and 15,000 additional higher-education places, but student groups say the measures fall short; 41 schools were affected on Monday, a smaller scale than before the break.

Police Internal Affairs Examines Former Sukoharjo Police Chief and Three Officers

The National Police’s Propam division is investigating four Sukoharjo officers, including former police chief Andhika Dharma Sena, over the controversial search of the Hamalatul Quran Islamic boarding school. All four have been suspended while separate criminal and ethics proceedings continue, after reports that female students and teachers were intimidated during the search.