Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 4 November 2026

Showing 751-800 of 1,482 articles

Local Governments Urged to Enforce Smoke-Free Area Bylaws, Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Says: Do Not Let the Tobacco Industry Call the Shots

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto has urged local governments to enforce smoke-free area (KTR) bylaws consistently and resist efforts by the tobacco industry to weaken them. He said robust enforcement, funding and oversight are essential to protect young people from tobacco exposure and support Indonesia’s public-health goals.

OJK Sanctions Supra Sekuritas; Pandu Sjahrir Says He Has Divested His Stake

Danantara Indonesia’s chief investment officer, Pandu Sjahrir, says he began selling his minority, passive stake in Supra Sekuritas on 1 June 2026, more than four months before OJK announced a Rp1.4 billion fine against the firm. He says Danantara has never conducted business with the brokerage and supports enforcement, stressing that governance and conflict-of-interest safeguards are applied to its investment decisions.

Motorcyclist in Bogor Beaten by Three People Claiming to Be Santri After Being Accused of Speeding

A motorcyclist in Parung, Bogor, was allegedly stopped and beaten by three people who identified themselves as santri after they accused him of riding too fast. The victim reported the incident to police, who are investigating.

US Election Projections: Democrats Dominate House, Lead Republicans in Senate

Democrats are projected to win control of the US House of Representatives with 255 seats, while Republicans are forecast to secure 180. In the Senate, projections give Democrats a 55–45 majority, with results still being counted at the time of reporting.

Bima Arya Urges Village Heads to Have a Vision: What They Do Is What Residents Feel

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto urged village heads to set a clear vision, priorities and commitment to residents’ needs, and to focus on substantive public services rather than ceremony. Speaking at a university programme for village heads in South Sumatra, he highlighted local leaders whose initiatives had improved neighbourhoods and said data analysis was vital to designing effective village programmes.

Premium Rice Prices Continue to Rise as Medium-Grade Rice Begins to Fall

National premium rice prices edged up 0.12% in the month to 2 November 2026, while medium-grade prices fell 0.29%, according to the National Food Agency. The figures come as rice inflation eased sharply in October and the government expanded its market intervention through Bulog’s food supply and price stabilisation programme.

Women’s and Children’s Ministry Ensures Protection for Female Students and Teachers at Sukoharjo Islamic Boarding School

The Ministry of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection is coordinating with local authorities to provide support to 11 female students and four teachers from an Islamic boarding school in Sukoharjo. The ministry has called for sensitive psychological assistance and strict protection of their identities as police investigate a separate incident linked to the school search.

Q3 Is Only the Beginning: Indonesia’s Economic Pressures Will Be Felt at the End of 2026

Prasasti expects Indonesia’s economy to grow by about 5.2% in the third quarter of 2026, but warns that the full impact of high oil prices, El Niño and forest fires is likely to emerge in the fourth quarter. The pressures could make the government’s 5.4% annual growth target difficult to reach, while limited fiscal and monetary room constrains the response.

Yogyakarta National Forum Demonstrators Storm DIY Legislative Council and Remove Gibran’s Photograph

The Yogyakarta National Forum held a protest at the Yogyakarta Regional Legislative Council, removing Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s photograph before restoring it after the event. The group called for Gibran’s impeachment and for former president Joko Widodo to be tried, alleging that neither man has a genuine diploma; a council member said the removal was spontaneous and referred to a Supreme Court decision concerning Gibran’s diploma.

Ariyo Windutomo Appointed Acting Presidential Chief of Staff, Replacing Listyo Sigit: A Look at His Military Career

President Prabowo Subianto has appointed Lieutenant General Ariyo Windutomo as acting head of the Presidential Staff Office to fill the vacancy left by Listyo Sigit Prabowo’s dismissal. Windutomo’s career has included roles at the Ministry of Defence and the Presidential Secretariat, where he served as Presidential Secretariat chief before being promoted to lieutenant general in March 2026.

Industry Minister Highlights Challenges Facing Food and Beverage Sector

Industry Minister M Sarmuji says Indonesia’s food and beverage sector must make better use of existing production capacity and strengthen productivity, innovation and local sourcing. He also called for investment in intermediate processing to deepen supply chains, increase value added and enable businesses to supply other industries as well as end consumers.

Suspect in Denpasar Soka Street Stabbing Arrested

Police have arrested a 34-year-old man in connection with the stabbing of a 31-year-old man in East Denpasar, apprehending him at Padangbai Port. Investigators are still examining the motive; the suspect faces up to five years in prison under the Criminal Code.

Zelenskyy Visits Berlin to Discuss Strengthening Support for Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is in Berlin seeking additional air-defence missiles and support for Ukraine’s energy sector ahead of winter, as diplomatic meetings with Russia and the United States are planned in Abu Dhabi. His visit follows a major Russian overnight attack that wounded at least 73 people in Kharkiv and comes as Germany steps up security for a regional security conference.

Fake Job Interviews Used to Steal Trillions of Rupiah in Crypto Assets

Binance says hackers believed to be linked to North Korea stole US$6.3 billion in crypto assets through a months-long operation involving fake recruitment approaches and malware disguised as AI development tools. The exchange says it has frozen or intercepted about US$2.85 billion, recovered 98% of affected assets and pledged to reimburse customers; the FBI has attributed the attack to a North Korean hacking group, a claim Pyongyang rejects.

Gerindra Secretary-General Calls for Possible Treason Motive in Listyo and Others’ Prabowo Wiretapping Case to Be Investigated

Gerindra secretary-general Sugiono has urged investigators to examine whether the alleged unauthorised wiretapping of President Prabowo Subianto could constitute an attempt against him, while stressing that the legal process should be transparent and professional. Police say three people have been named suspects in a case involving alleged illegal interception, deletion of electronic data and unauthorised access.

Gajah Mada Gets a Facelift, but Denpasar Residents Complain of Damaged Roads and Facilities

Denpasar residents have questioned the priority and timing of the Gajah Mada heritage-area redevelopment, arguing that potholes, poor lighting, damaged pavements and inadequate drainage elsewhere in the city need more urgent attention. They also say the lengthy construction work is disrupting movement during a busy year-end period and call for better-maintained bus stops and pedestrian facilities.

IPB Consumer Behaviour Expert Urges People Not to Let Clothes Become Waste

IPB University consumer behaviour expert Ujang Sumarwan is urging the development of more environmentally friendly clothing materials and greater public education to extend garments’ useful lives. He says higher prices, limited choices and inadequate information can deter consumers, and recommends donating or reselling unwanted clothes.

Electric Car Insurance Market Gains Momentum as Oona (ABDA) Boosts Profits

Oona Insurance Indonesia posted a 20.65% year-on-year rise in net profit to Rp134.36 billion in the third quarter of 2026, supported by a 49.7% increase in gross written premiums (GWP). The company said its motor-insurance market share rose to 3.8%, while electric-vehicle insurance has become a key growth driver, with Oona claiming an 8% share of that market.

Abdul El-Sayed Becomes First Muslim Elected to the US Senate

Democrat Abdul El-Sayed has defeated Republican Mike Rogers in Michigan, securing a Senate seat and making history as the first Muslim elected to the US Senate. His campaign centred on economic populism and universal healthcare, while facing attacks focused on his faith and criticism of the Trump administration’s tariffs and Iran policy.

Awaiting Prabowo’s Approval, 188 Million Indonesians Could Receive BPJS Premium Assistance in 2027

The Social Affairs Ministry is preparing a proposed expansion of BPJS Health premium assistance to cover about 188 million Indonesians in 2027, pending President Prabowo Subianto’s approval. The draft plan would divide the estimated Rp94.78 trillion annual cost among the central, provincial and regency/city governments, with eligibility determined by socioeconomic deciles.

Karawang Narcotics Chief and Seven Officers Investigated Over Release of Drug Dealer

West Java Police’s Propam division is investigating eight Karawang Police officers, including the narcotics unit chief, over the alleged release of a dealer in certain hard drugs. All eight have been removed from their duties and transferred to West Java Police, while the circumstances of the release remain unclear.

Minister orders impact assessment of Mount Semeru mudflows

The Public Works Ministry is assessing damage to water infrastructure in Lumajang after heavy rain triggered cold volcanic mudflows from Mount Semeru, affecting a lahar-control embankment, three sabo dams and a riverbank structure. Emergency repairs are on hold while conditions remain hazardous, with personnel and equipment evacuated and response resources on standby; authorities are monitoring volcanic activity, rainfall and river levels.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Urges Regions to Enforce Smoke-Free Area Regulations

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto has called on local governments to enforce smoke-free area regulations consistently, warning against weakening them under pressure from the tobacco industry. He said tobacco control and tuberculosis prevention are essential to improving public health and protecting young people as Indonesia seeks to make the most of its demographic dividend towards 2045.

National Police Chief Says Sukoharjo Islamic Boarding School Case Should Prompt Review by All Police Chiefs

National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto has urged regional police chiefs to learn from the controversial raid on the Hamalatul Quran Islamic boarding school in Sukoharjo. An internal Professional and Security Division investigation is under way, and Sukoharjo’s police chief has been transferred to facilitate the review.

Including the Indonesian Navy: A Complete Guide to Military Ranks from Officers to Enlisted Personnel

The article outlines the Indonesian National Armed Forces’ three services and explains how their rank structures differ in terminology, including the Navy’s use of “Kelasi” for enlisted ranks. It presents the rank hierarchy as a framework for discipline, command and national defence, although the rank data referred to in the article are not included in the supplied text.

Yogyakarta National Forum Protesters Remove Gibran’s Portrait at DIY Regional Council

Members of the Yogyakarta National Forum removed Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s portrait during a meeting at the Yogyakarta Regional People’s Representative Council (DPRD DIY), then reinstated it after the event. The group called for Gibran’s impeachment and for former president Joko Widodo to face trial, citing allegations concerning their academic certificates; a local legislator said the group’s demands would be conveyed through political parties, while responsibility for any impeachment rests with the national parliament.

Legislator Says Honours Council Should Review Listyo’s Bintang Mahaputera

DPR Commission I member TB Hasanuddin has urged the Council for Titles, Decorations and Honours to review the Bintang Mahaputera Adipurna awarded to police general Listyo Sigit Prabowo, following his designation as a suspect in an alleged illegal wiretapping case. The law allows the President to revoke an honour after receiving the council’s consideration, but Hasanuddin said any review should respect the presumption of innocence and proceed transparently.

Global Asset Managers to Gather in Bali for Forum Targeting $30 Billion in Regional Investment

The inaugural New Asia Forum will bring major global asset managers and corporate executives to Bali on 3–4 December 2026, with Indonesia aiming to mobilise $30 billion in private capital for projects across Southeast Asia and the wider region. Hosted under President Prabowo Subianto and anchored by state investment agency Danantara, the event is intended to turn investor engagement into concrete partnerships and investment opportunities.

ADIPEC 2026 in Abu Dhabi Becomes a Platform for Indonesia to Attract Upstream Oil and Gas Investment

SKK Migas and Indonesian upstream companies promoted investment opportunities at ADIPEC 2026 in Abu Dhabi, presenting exploration prospects and potential partnerships to international energy firms. The meetings, including discussions with Halliburton, ADNOC and other companies, are intended to secure mutually beneficial investment that can raise oil and gas production, strengthen energy security and support economic growth.

Basic and Secondary Education Minister Encourages TKA Candidates at SMAN 3 Tangerang

Education Minister Abdul Mu’ti visited the senior secondary academic competency test at SMAN 3 Tangerang, encouraging candidates to master the material, stay confident and manage their time. He said the second testing wave had generally run smoothly, with make-up exams arranged in areas affected by power cuts; the school reported extensive technical preparations.

Trump Threatens to Use Veto if Democrats Take Control of US Congress

Donald Trump said he would veto Democratic legislative initiatives if the opposition party wins a majority in either chamber of Congress in the midterm elections. The vote will determine whether Republicans can retain control of both chambers, with Trump campaigning across the country to support Republican candidates and mobilise voters.

Italy says cyberattack did not affect all food refrigeration systems

Italy says a cyberattack targeting food refrigeration systems at supermarkets had only a limited impact, affecting a small number of outlets and posing no public-health risk from thawing frozen food. The government said most distribution networks use updated security systems, while relevant agencies remain on high alert.

Kepahiang Regent Begins Rp15.5bn Regional Road Project

Kepahiang Regent Zurdi Nata has begun a 4.2-kilometre road project in Sidorejo, funded with Rp15.5 billion from the state budget. The project is expected to improve access for agricultural produce, residents and tourists, while the regent has called on the public to help monitor construction quality.

Palace Still Questions Listyo’s Motive for Allegedly Tapping Prabowo: ‘We’re Wondering Too’

State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi said the Palace is still seeking to understand why former Presidential Chief of Staff Listyo Sigit Prabowo and associates allegedly carried out illegal surveillance of President Prabowo Subianto. Listyo is now a suspect and has been removed from his post, while authorities continue investigating who may have directed the operation.

Seraya Culture Fest Returns, with Gebug Ende Still the Main Attraction

The three-day Seraya Culture Festival will take place in Karangasem, Bali, from 5 to 7 November, with the traditional gebug ende ritual as its centrepiece. Organisers hope the event will preserve local heritage while bringing economic benefits through UMKM participation and tourism, alongside social activities including blood donations and school-supply assistance.

Large Deposits Grow Faster as Banks Offer Higher Interest Rates

Deposits exceeding Rp5 billion recorded the strongest growth among deposit tiers in September 2026, while total banking deposits reached Rp10,513 trillion, up 8.65% year on year. The share of deposits earning special rates above the Deposit Insurance Corporation’s guarantee rate also rose, prompting the agency and other financial authorities to monitor funding competition and its effects on banks.

Philippines Invites Canadian PM to ASEAN Summit, Awaits Confirmation of Trump’s Attendance

The Philippines, ASEAN’s 2026 chair, has invited Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney to the 49th ASEAN Summit in November and is awaiting confirmation from US President Donald Trump and several other leaders. The three-day programme will include 19 events and is expected to produce 154 documents spanning ASEAN’s political-security, economic and socio-cultural pillars.

Besides Prabowo, BJ Habibie and SBY Have Also Been Victims of Wiretapping

Prabowo Subianto is the latest Indonesian president alleged to have been targeted by illegal wiretapping, following earlier cases involving BJ Habibie in 1999 and Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono in 2009. The article recounts the historical incidents and reports that police have named three generals as suspects in the latest case, which the government says prompted Prabowo to dismiss Listyo Sigit Prabowo from his post as Presidential Chief of Staff.

OJK Sanctions Parties in Three Capital Market Violations, with Share Manipulation in Focus

Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) has imposed administrative sanctions in three capital-market cases, including alleged manipulation of Panorama Sentrawisata shares that generated more than Rp5 billion in unlawful gains. The measures also target three Bintang Oto Global directors over misleading financial statements and former broker representative Lianiwati over falsified client portfolio reports and unauthorised share sales.

Indonesia and WHO strengthen herbal medicine oversight to unlock economic potential

Indonesia’s BPOM and the WHO are working to strengthen post-market surveillance of traditional and herbal medicines, with a focus on safety and regulatory capacity. The sector has substantial growth potential—Indonesia’s domestic market is estimated at US$20 billion, compared with current realised value of less than Rp6 trillion—but illicit adulteration remains a serious public health risk.

Prabowo orders transparent probe into alleged wiretapping

President Prabowo Subianto has instructed the National Police chief to investigate alleged wiretapping, destruction of electronic evidence and illegal access objectively and in accordance with the law. Three police personnel have been named as suspects, while authorities say the investigation is ongoing and the alleged targets included senior state officials.

Tencent built an empire on WeChat and gaming. Can it keep up in China’s AI race?

Tencent faces intensifying competition from AI startups and established rivals, as its chatbot Yuanbao trails ByteDance’s Doubao and investor concerns weigh on its shares. Its vast WeChat ecosystem and global gaming business offer major advantages, but the company must integrate AI carefully to protect user privacy and deliver practical value.

IDX and OJK Join Forces to Urge Listed Companies to Improve Transparency, with Investor Confidence at Stake

The Indonesia Stock Exchange, financial market infrastructure institutions and the Financial Services Authority have called on listed companies to strengthen transparency, integrity and corporate governance. At CEO Networking 2026, officials said these measures are essential to investor confidence, sustainable market growth and the Indonesian capital market’s global competitiveness.

Five Police Officers Shot Dead on Road While Travelling to Secure Party Event

Five Nigerian police officers were killed when gunmen ambushed the public bus carrying them along the Sokoto–Gusau highway. They were travelling to Zamfara to provide security for the All Progressives Congress primaries, amid persistent attacks and kidnappings in north-western Nigeria.

Police Survey 400 Homes in Kampung Boncos to Identify Residents Needing Work

Metro Jaya Police and the Jakarta provincial government are surveying 400 homes in Kampung Boncos to assess residents’ social and economic circumstances, including employment and skills needs. The initiative aims to address the area’s reputation as a drug-trafficking neighbourhood and support its transformation into a drug-free community through training and improvements guided by residents’ needs.

ADIPEC 2026 to Expand Partnerships in Indonesia’s Upstream Oil and Gas Industry

Indonesia is using ADIPEC 2026 in Abu Dhabi to promote upstream oil and gas investment and forge partnerships with global energy companies. SKK Migas says the deals and cooperation sought at the event are intended to support production growth, national energy security and sustainable economic development.

Bantaeng Holds Public Consultation on Detailed Spatial Plan

Bantaeng’s acting regional secretary opened a public consultation on detailed spatial plans and strategic environmental assessments for several districts in the regency. He said the plans will guide development and land-use control, and that integrating them with Indonesia’s OSS licensing system is key to providing greater certainty for permits and investment.

USU Professor: Alleged Presidential Phone-Tapping Case Could Prompt Swift Passage of Interception Law

University of North Sumatra law professor OK Saidin says allegations that President Prabowo and others were unlawfully tapped underline the need for Parliament and the Government to pass a dedicated interception law. He advocates safeguards including judicial authorisation, limits to serious crimes, external audits and judicial review, as police investigate three suspects in the case.

Metro Jaya Police Probe Alleged Paid Students at Youth Pledge Event

Metro Jaya Police are investigating how people who were not students came to attend a Youth Pledge event in Jakarta wearing university jackets, amid allegations that they had been paid. Three participants have apologised for falsely presenting themselves as students, and one said he had received payment; police say those found responsible will face sanctions.

Judge Probes ‘Sweet-Talking’ Promise That Led Steel Boss to Pay Rp 22.5bn

PT Perwira Adhitama Sejati chief executive Hirmon Tjandi told a Jakarta corruption court he paid Rp 22.5 billion to a law firm linked to Ferry Yanto Hongkiriwang after being promised help with a steel-import corruption case. The judge pressed him on the vague assurances, while prosecutors allege former deputy attorney-general for special crimes Febrie Adriansyah extorted Rp 55 billion and laundered hundreds of billions of rupiah.